HAMILTON, Ontario, Canada (June 1, 2026) – Canadian cruiserweight contender Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (21-1-1, 20 KOs) has developed a strong admiration and tremendous respect for British sports fans since he first traveled to England in 2023. 

As Rozicki prepares for this Saturday’s showdown with Chris “The Gentleman” Billam-Smith (21-2, 13 KOs), to take place in his opponent’s hometown of Bournemouth, England, the heavily tattooed prizefighter hopes to have some British soccer fans in his corner, especially the most passionate fans of the Sheffield Wednesday F.C., as well as possibly a player or two, from the club known as “The Owls,” which was founded back in 1867.

Rozicki and his longtime promoter, Three Lions Promotions managing director Dan Otter, attended a 2023 playoff game at the famed Wembley Stadium in London to watch a promotional playoff match between neighboring cities football clubs, Sheffield Wednesday F.C. and Barnsley F.C. Otter’s family comes from Sheffield and is a strong supporter of Sheffield Wednesday. Rozicki was simply blown away by the loyalty of Sheffield Wednesday F.C. fans.

“I’ve traveled to a lot of places and been around plenty of sporting events, Rozicki said, “but the passion of the Sheffield Wednesday supporters was something else. The noise, the pride, and the way they backed their club all day was incredible. It reminded me a lot of what boxing fans are like when they get behind one of their own.”

Otter firmly believes the connection between Rozicki and Sheffield Wednesday is genuine.

“Ryan absolutely loved the experience at Wembley,” Otter added. “The Wednesday supporters welcomed us and the atmosphere was unbelievable. Ever since then he’s followed the club and always asks how they’re getting on. It’s a real connection, not something manufactured for a headline.”

The 10-round Smith-Billam vs. Rozicki match will headline Zuffa Boxing’s inaugural event in the United Kingdom.

“When fans in England get to watch Ryan and see his style of fighting, they will absolutely love it,” Otter predicted. “He is the real deal, a pressure fighter with a throwback style. Everyone is in for a real treat on June 6^th.”

Rozicki has been on a mission, albeit loaded with obstacles, to become the first Canadian-born World Cruiserweight Champion. The winner of Smith-Billam vs. Rozicki will likely be at the head of the line to challenge Zuffa Boxing and Ring Magazine’s World Cruiserweight Champion, Jai Opetaia (30-0, 23 KOs).

The 31-year old Rozicki — world rated  #1 by the WBC, Ring Magazine #6, WBA #10, and IBF #13 – will be rooting this summer for his native Canada’s national soccer team, of course, but a close second for him is now traditional power England. Canada (Vancouver and Toronto), Mexico and the United States are World Cup hosts.

“I’m Canadian,” Rozicki proudly noted, “but I’ve always had a soft spot for England since that trip.” If a few Wednesday fans are cheering for me on Saturday night, I’ll happily take it.”

Rozicki hopes some Sheffield Wednesday fans will be in Bournemouth this Saturday night, chanting and singing on his behalf, for the most significant fight of his boxing career.

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (June 1, 2026) — Tickets are on sale now for Boxing Insider Promotions’ next night of professional boxing at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City on Saturday, June 13. The seven-bout card is built around tri-state talent, with fighters from Philadelphia, New Jersey, and New York filling out a lineup made for fans who want to see their own local boxers under the lights.

**MAIN EVENT: Bruce Seldon Jr. vs. Josh Popper, Heavyweight**

Two undefeated heavyweights look to do battle in a 50/50 war. Bruce “2.0” Seldon Jr., son of former WBA heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon Sr., meets Josh Popper, a South Jersey native now based in New York City, where he founded Breadwinners. Both men carry knockout power, and both are looking to bring the fireworks. With the winner moving to the next level of his career, neither plans on leaving it to the judges.

**CO-FEATURE: Daiyaan Butt vs. Willmank Canonico Brito, 142 lbs**

The co-feature brings a Philadelphia fighter into the spotlight. Daiyaan Butt, of Philadelphia, Pa. and a Temple University graduate, is one of the city’s busiest young pros and looks to put on a show for the fans who have followed him up the ranks. Standing across from Butt is Willmank Canonico Brito in what shapes up as an action-packed eight-rounder between two fighters who come to throw hands.

**ON THE UNDERCARD**

– Damian Tinnerello, of Berlin, N.J. and an active member of the United States Air Force, vs. Abdalla Nagy, 156 lbs

– Kahshad Elliott, of Plainfield, N.J., vs. Scottie Stockman, 156 lbs

– Julio “Jewelz” Sanchez III, of Pleasantville, N.J., vs. Shawn Rall, lightweight

– Jahanzeb Rizwan, of the Bronx, N.Y., vs. an opponent to be announced, middleweight

– David Malul, of Queens, N.Y., vs. Julius Thomas, welterweight

“This is our eighth show at the Trop since 2024. In the main event we’ve got two undefeated heavyweights with deep local roots, Josh Popper and Bruce Seldon Jr., fighting each other. That never happens at this level. Add a card full of regional fighters from Jersey, New York, and Philly, and you’ve got old-school boxing in a historic fight town. Get your tickets and come see the fights live,” said promoter Larry Goldberg.

**EVENT INFORMATION**

What: Boxing Insider Promotions presents a night of professional boxing

When: Saturday, June 13, 2026

Where: Tropicana Atlantic City, N.J.

Tickets: On sale now at Ticketmaster.com

https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-06-13-2026/event/02006495CFC0F3D8

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (June 1, 2026) – Undefeated heavyweight contender, Gustavo “The Cuban Assassin” Trujillo (11-0, 10 KOs), currently ranked WBO #14, continued his rapid rise through the heavyweight ranks with another explosive performance, stopping veteran Sergio Ramirez Marin (22-9, 12 KOs) in the opening round of their scheduled 10-round heavyweight showdown this past Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the historic War Memorial Auditorium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The event, promoted by American Dream Presents, showcased Trujillo’s growing reputation as one of the division’s most dangerous punchers. Trujillo wasted no time imposing his will on Marin, systematically breaking down the durable veteran with crushing body shots before finishing the contest in spectacular fashion.

From the opening bell, Trujillo, the current BKB Heavyweight Champion, demonstrated the combination of power, precision, and patience that has become his trademark. The Cuban heavyweight, who is a promotional free agent, sent Marin to the canvas twice with devastating body attacks that visibly drained the veteran’s resistance. After Marin courageously rose from both knockdowns, Trujillo closed the show with a thunderous uppercut that produced a third knockdown. Seeing Marin in no condition to continue, the referee waved off the bout after a ten count, awarding Trujillo a first-round technical knockout victory.

The emphatic win further cements Trujillo’s status as one of the fastest-rising contenders in the heavyweight division and extends a knockout streak that has boxing fans and industry insiders taking notice. Reflecting on his electrifying performance, Trujillo expressed satisfaction with the execution of his game plan while emphasizing his continued development as a complete fighter.

“Every time I fight, I want to give the fans something exciting to watch and show why the heavyweight division is so entertaining,” said Trujillo. “I felt great from the start and stuck to the game plan. I stayed patient, landed my shots, and took advantage of the openings when they came. The body punches helped wear him down, and once I saw the chance to land the uppercut, I went for it. Getting a knockout is always a great feeling, but what means the most to me is seeing all the hard work I put in during training pay off on fight night. I feel like I’m getting better with every fight, and this performance showed that.”

With his impressive winning streak continuing to grow, Trujillo remains focused on achieving his lifelong goal of becoming heavyweight champion of the world. “Ever since I started boxing, I’ve dreamed of becoming the heavyweight champion of the world,” stated Trujillo. “That’s what drives me every day in training and keeps me motivated to keep getting better. I know there are a lot of great fighters in the heavyweight division right now, but I believe in myself and what I bring to the ring. I have the power, work ethic, and determination to reach the top. I’m not looking for easy fights or shortcuts. I want to earn my place by taking on tough challenges and proving myself every time I step into the ring. My goal is to win a world title and make my family, my country of Cuba, and all the people who support me proud.”

The win over Marin was another big step forward for Trujillo as he continues climbing the heavyweight ranks and moving closer to bigger opportunities. “This win means a lot to me because it shows that I’m getting better every time I step into the ring and that I’m ready for tougher opponents and bigger fights. Every fight teaches me something and helps me grow as a fighter. Performances like this let the boxing world know that I’m serious about becoming one of the top heavyweights out there. I’ve worked very hard to get where I am today, but I know there’s still a lot more to accomplish. This victory gives me more confidence, more experience, and brings me one step closer to the opportunities I’ve been chasing. I want fans and boxing people to see that I’m becoming a real threat in the heavyweight division.”

Never one to stay inactive for long, Trujillo made it clear that he is eager to return to action as soon as possible. “I feel great, and I want to stay active,” concluded Trujillo. “My team and I will sit down and evaluate the best opportunity, but if everything goes according to plan, I’d love to be back in the ring later this summer or early fall. The most important thing is continuing to stay busy, keep improving, and maintain the momentum we’re building. I respect every opponent, but I’m ready for the next challenge whenever it comes. The fans deserve exciting fights, and I intend to keep delivering them.”

Trujillo’s manager, Abe Swidan of Visionary Sports Group, believes the Cuban knockout artist possesses all the attributes necessary to emerge as the next major heavyweight star from Cuba.

“What Gustavo demonstrated on Saturday evening was far more than raw punching power,” said Swidan. “What impressed me most was his ability to systematically dismantle an experienced opponent. He invested intelligently in the body, remained patient under pressure, and finished the fight with remarkable precision. Those are qualities that separate legitimate contenders from merely exciting prospects.”

Swidan went on to praise Trujillo’s combination of talent, work ethic, and star potential.

?”The great heavyweight champions have always had more than just power, they have dedication, discipline, and the right mindset. Gustavo has all of those qualities,” Swidan concluded. “He approaches boxing like a true professional, works incredibly hard in the gym, and is always looking to improve. What stands out to me is that he’s not only a gifted athlete, but he’s also willing to put in the work necessary to reach the top. Cuba has produced many outstanding fighters over the years, and I believe Gustavo has what it takes to become the next Cuban heavyweight star on the world stage. Every fight he looks better, and performances like this show he’s ready for bigger opportunities. We believe he can compete with the best heavyweights in the sport and eventually fight for a world title. The exciting part is that he’s still improving, and I don’t think we’ve seen the very best of Gustavo yet.”

The Championships Committee of the World Boxing Association (WBA) has announced that Antonio Vargas has been recognized as the WBA Bantamweight World Champion following the designation of Japan’s Seiya Tsutsumi as Champion in Recess due to a medical condition that has prevented him from training and competing in recent months.

The decision was made after reviewing the documentation submitted by Tsutsumi’s team, including medical reports that were evaluated by the WBA Medical Committee.

Tsutsumi captured the WBA Bantamweight World Championship in October 2024 and successfully defended his title on two occasions. However, the medical situation reported by his team required the Committee to assess his status in accordance with the organization’s rules and regulations.

Pursuant to WBA Rule C.22, which provides for Champion in Recess status when a champion is unable to defend a title due to medical, legal, or other justified circumstances beyond his control, the Committee determined that sufficient grounds existed to grant Tsutsumi such status for a period not exceeding six months.

As a result of this ruling, Antonio Vargas is now officially recognized as the WBA Bantamweight World Champion.

Furthermore, the WBA has authorized Vargas to make a voluntary defense of his championship against Jesse Rodríguez on June 13 in Glendale, Arizona. The winner of that bout, or Vargas in the event of a draw, will be required to face Tsutsumi within a six-month period thereafter.

The resolution also stipulates that Tsutsumi must submit updated medical reports regarding his treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery prognosis in order to allow the Committee to evaluate his eventual return to active competition.

The WBA reiterates its commitment to the health and well-being of athletes, as well as to the orderly development of its championships, ensuring a balance between the recovery of injured champions and the competitive progress of each division.

EL PASO, TEXAS – MAY 30, 2026 – Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) today announced that MVPW-03: Han vs. Holm 2 and Serrano vs. Hanson on Saturday, May 30, at the El Paso County Coliseum has generated the highest gate for a combat sports event in the venue’s history.

MVPW-03 now joins a storied lineage of historic combat sports events at the El Paso County Coliseum, including a young George Foreman’s 1971 TKO victory over Vic Scott early in his professional career, Hall of Famer Salvador Sánchez’s legendary 1980 WBC featherweight title defense against Juan Laporte and Erik Morales’ first WBC junior featherweight world title victory over Daniel Zaragoza in 1997, a landmark card that featured future boxing icon Floyd Mayweather Jr. early in his professional career. The venue also hosted Sugar Shane Mosley’s IBF lightweight title defense later that same year, helping cement the Coliseum’s reputation as one of the Southwest’s most historic combat sports venues. 

Additionally, the Coliseum hosted AEW Dynamite in February 2023, bringing nationally televised professional wrestling back to El Paso, featuring many of the sport’s biggest stars. The venue also welcomed TNA Sacrifice 2025 and TNA Final Resolution 2025, along with many of the region’s leading boxing and mixed martial arts promotions, further cementing its reputation as one of the premier combat sports venues along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Headlined by El Paso native and MVP’s WBA lightweight world champion Stephanie Han (12-0, 3 KOs) and the most decorated two-sport athlete in sports history, Holly Holm (34-3-3, 9 KOs) in a highly anticipated rematch, alongside MVP’s unified featherweight champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (48-4-1, 31 KOs) defending her world titles against Germany’s top-ranked contender Cheyenne “Pepper” Hanson (17-2, 13 KOs), MVPW-03 has established itself as the biggest fight night in El Paso County Coliseum history. The event also features additional world championship bouts, including MVP and Australia’s unified middleweight world champion Desley Robinson (11-3, 4 KOs) vs. Canada’s former world champion Mary Spencer (10-3, 6 KOs) and MVP’s three-division champion Yokasta Valle (34-3, 10 KOs) vs. Mexico’s WBC junior flyweight world champion Lourdes Juarez (39-4, 5 KOs). 

“This is a historic moment not only for Most Valuable Promotions, but for El Paso and the local fight fans who have supported this event from day one,” said Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, co-founders of MVP. “The El Paso County Coliseum has hosted some of the most important names in boxing history, from a young George Foreman and Hall of Famer Salvador Sánchez, to Erik Morales and Sugar Shane Mosley, and later Floyd Mayweather Jr. For MVPW-03 to set a record gate in a venue with this kind of history is a powerful statement about how far women’s boxing has come. Amanda Serrano, Holly Holm, Stephanie Han, and the extraordinary champions featured on this card have accomplished something unprecedented, and we are proud to deliver what is now the highest-grossing combat sports event ever held at this iconic venue.”

MVPW-03 continues MVP’s commitment to elevating women’s boxing and producing historic events that showcase the sport’s biggest stars on the largest stages. The record-breaking event further cements MVP’s position as one of combat sports’ premier promoters, continuing the company’s growing track record of delivering historic live events globally. On Saturday, May 30, MVPW-03: Han vs. Holm 2 and Serrano vs. Hanson will take place live from El Paso County Coliseum in El Paso, Texas, with the preliminary card beginning at 3:00pm MT live on ESPN+ and the main card beginning at 7:00pm MT live on ESPN. 

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions.

About MVP

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) was founded in August 2021 by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian with a fighter-first ethos. Since its inception, MVP has produced 30 live boxing events, currently promotes over 60 fighters, 16 world champions, and 26 top contenders.

MVP has led boxing’s evolution in the streaming era through partnerships with the world’s leading platforms. In November 2024, MVP’s Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2 was the first-ever live professional sports event streamed on Netflix. Paul vs. Tyson shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event of all time with 125 million live viewers worldwide. MVP went on to partner with Netflix twice in 2025 for MVP’s Taylor vs. Serrano 3 and Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day.

Today, MVP is the global home of women’s boxing. MVP’s Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano in 2022 was the first female fight to headline Madison Square Garden, while Taylor vs. Serrano 2 in 2024 saw 74 million viewers globally on Netflix and became the most-watched professional women’s sports event in US history with 47 million AMA in the US. Their 2025 trilogy on Netflix topped an all-women’s megacard that set the official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most world championship belts ever contested on a single fight card, male or female, with 17 world titles, earning nearly 6 million viewers globally. 

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Tonight marks a historic night in boxing as two of Cuba’s most celebrated champions, Yuriorkis Gamboa and Guillermo Rigondeaux, return to the ring LIVE at HAVANA HEAT, streaming exclusively on the Nothing But Sportz app for just $9.95.

Fans around the world can experience an unforgettable evening of championship boxing, Cuban pride, and elite competition by registering and subscribing now at NothingButSportz.com and downloading the Nothing But Sportz app, available on Apple, Roku, Truth+, and Cloud TV.?
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In the main event, legendary Olympic gold medalist and former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa faces Alexander Espinoza for the WBA Latino 140 LB Title. A national icon in Cuba and one of boxing’s most explosive fighters, Gamboa rose through the ranks with electrifying speed, fearless performances, and a willingness to face elite competition, becoming one of the sport’s most respected and recognizable stars.

In the co-main event, two-time Olympic gold medalist and former world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux battles Jose Velasquez in a showcase of elite boxing intelligence, precision, and championship pedigree. Widely regarded as one of the greatest technical fighters of his era, Rigondeaux’s brilliance and ring IQ cemented his legacy as one of Cuba’s greatest boxing champions.

The stacked HAVANA HEAT card will also feature actor and boxer Akeem Cheatham, along with Cuban heavyweight sensation “The Cuban Assassin” Gustavo Trujillo defending his WBO & WBC Latin Heavyweight Titles in a featured attraction packed with championship implications.

RONALD JOHNSON, CEO OF AMERICAN DREAM PRESENTS

“This is a massive night for boxing and a celebration of two of Cuba’s favorite sons. Gamboa and Rigondeaux have inspired generations of fighters and fans around the world, and tonight they step back into battle on one unforgettable stage. Havana Heat is about legacy, culture, and great fights. We’re proud to give fans the opportunity to witness history live on Nothing But Sportz.”

TONIGHT — DON’T MISS THE ACTION

WATCH LIVE: Gamboa vs. Espinoza & Rigondeaux vs. Velasquez

STREAMING EXCLUSIVELY ON NOTHING BUT SPORTZ

ONLY $9.95

REGISTER & WATCH: NothingButSportz.com

Ronald Johnson

CEO, American Dream Presents

6 x 3 mins Super-Featherweight contest

Julian Montalvo (132.8lbs)        vs        Maximus Moya (132.6lbs)
Las Vegas, Nevada                                   Albuquerque, New Mexico

Followed by

6 x 3 mins Middleweight contest

Frank Espinosa (159.8lbs)        vs        Bryce Blackwell (160lbs)
Sacramento, California                            Houston, Texas

Followed by

6 x 3 mins Super-Middleweight contest

Jahyden Britton (169lbs)            vs        Najee West (167.4lbs)
Hempstead, Texas                                     Davenport, Iowa

Followed by

6 x 3 mins Super-Featherweight contest

Zaquin Moses (131.8lbs)           vs        Travis Crawford (133lbs)
Newark, New Jersey                                Corpus Christi, Texas

LIVE ON DAZN FROM 7PM

10 x 3 mins Featherweight contest

Miguel Flores (126.6lbs) vs        Javon Woodard Jr (126.8lbs)
Spring, Texas                                   Atalanta, Georgia

Followed by

8 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight contest

Omari Jones (150.4lbs)  vs        Diego Osuna (151lbs)
Orlando, Florida                            Des Moines, Iowa

Followed by

Charlie Sheehy (138lbs) vs        Nike Theran (138.8lbs)
Brisbane, California                        Barranquilla, Colombia

Followed by

12 x 3 mins WBC World Super-Featherweight title

O’Shaquie Foster (130lbs)        vs        Raymond Ford (130lbs)
Houston, Texas                                        Camden, New Jersey

THE FINAL WORD

Eddie Hearn

“We’re delighted to be in Houston for the first time for Matchroom, and what a fight card it is and what a main event. This is one of the top fights in boxing. The buildup has been sensational. Everybody’s talking about it, O’Shaquie Foster defends his WBC World Super-Featherweight title against Raymond Ford, live and exclusive on DAZN around the world.

“This is a fight that I as a fight fan have been looking forward to since it was made. This arena going to be packed out on Saturday night. This is going to do huge numbers and viewership around the world, live on DAZN. Well done to both for a great buildup and this is a great, great matchup.”

O’Shaquie Foster

“I feel great. I give all glory to God, for this for this opportunity. All I got to do is capitalize. Now all these dudes over there talking, we ain’t hearing that. We don’t care. We have been through the fire. I’m ready. I’m prepared. I’m happy. And a happy fighter is a dangerous fighter. He’s going to find out Saturday.

“They call me, ice water. I stay cool. I stay calm and I flow like water. He going to find out Saturday. All that talking, is going to get shut down real quick. They are so nervous they can’t be quiet for a second. Saturday, they all going to be crying, they all going to be hurt. I’m going to dominate from round one to whenever the fight ends. If he gets too reckless like I told him, it’s going to be a bad night for him. This the this one of the biggest buildups that I’ve had in my career and all it does is just make me raise my game. You are going to see the best out of me Saturday.”

Raymond Ford

“I’m just ready. I ain’t really got too much to say, I’m ready. I can’t wait to shut y’all the f**k up. Y’all talk too much. Just tune in.”

Bobby Benton (Foster’s trainer)

“Shock’s the smartest fighter I’ve ever trained. Ray will find out right in the first round. Ray is a great fighter, but he’ll understand in the first round that it’s a different level.”

Tarae Stevenson (Ford’s trainer)

“This the longest training camp I done had in my career. We have put the blood, sweat, and tears in and we are just ready to go. Come Saturday, it’s Savage time, ‘and the new’. This the calm before the storm. The storm going to come Saturday and ain’t nothing he could do about it. They are just five minutes away and after this one, they going to no choice but to respect me.”

Carl Moretti (VP Boxing Operations, Top Rank)

“It’s been a great start for us on DAZN, the global home of boxing. It took some time to get there, but we couldn’t be more pleased with the partnership and how easy it is to make fights. You can’t blame, ‘well, he’s on that side of the street anymore’, there’s only one street right now and it’s the biggest street in boxing. O’Shaquie Foster, we all watched that fight in Mexico, they tried to take it from him, but he wouldn’t let them. It didn’t happen. This is his seventh World title fight, and it’s just levels at this at this point. He’s in his prime and we can’t wait for Saturday night.”

Charlie Sheehy

“I’m excited to be back with Matchroom, I started my career here and uh this is where I plan on becoming a World champion.

“I feel like I’m going to show a little bit of everything Saturday night, speed, power and skills.

“I’m looking to put my name into the rankings with this fight, my first ten rounder and keep climbing them to get uh a shot at one of the World champions.”

Nike Theran

“I want to thank to Eddie Hearn for the opportunity. We’ve come here to do, to contribute to this event, to show that there are the boxers of great quality on this card.”

Omari Jones

“When we got the news that our opponent got pulled out, and that a 9-0 guy wanted the fight and was willing to take the fight, we took it not even five minutes later, we said let’s make it happen. I didn’t want to miss this opportunity on this card. I just fought a 23-6 guy, so it just shows the test and the work that we put in, and you know Matchroom are testing me and believing in me.

“We step up to the competition and like you said the last opponent he covered up. He felt the power and didn’t want to engage. We’re coming to put on the show once again and on Saturday, I’m ready to show is my time.”

Diego Osuna

“I’m excited, I don’t feel pressure or nothing, but I’m excited. I feel the better the opponent, the better it brings it out of me. I’m ready to fight. That’s what I like to do. I like to fight and you guys are going to see an entertaining fight.”

Miguel Flores

“He’s saying what he’s supposed to say. I like his attitude. I like that. He’s going to bring out the best of me and we’ll see Saturday night, he could see he could save all that energy for Saturday, he’s going to have me in front ten rounds. After this, he might need to go back to TCL, you know, get a couple more paydays there. That didn’t go too well for him either, though.

“There’s a lot of things you can’t teach in boxing. And one is experience. You got to go through the years. Obviously, not on club shows. You got to be on the big stages. We’ve done it before. You didn’t even make it past TCL. Save that energy. We’ll see.

“We’re not going to sit here and talk about what we going to do, we’re going to show it on Saturday night. We have the right game plan, he better be ready to go 10 rounds.”

Javon Woodard

“He can’t f**k with me. I dominate. I do whatever I want to do – start to finish. It’s going to feel good to knock on somebody door and beat them in their crib. It’s however I feel, how I wake up feeling. I could box his head off, or I could just beat him up. it depends on how I feel tomorrow or Saturday. You know, there ain’t nothing he can do with me. He’s talking about 10 rounds, he’s lucky if it goes 10. He went to these big shows. And what did he do? He came up short. No mumbling from me, this s**t loud and clear.”

Zaquin Moses

“I’m ready to perform, I can’t wait to Saturday, I can’t wait to beat somebody up. It’s too bad it got to be him. He’s coming to get a check before he leave, but I’m going to show that one of the best prospects in the world. Perform, dominate, and if the stoppage is coming, it’s going to come.”

Travis Crawford

“I do plan on pulling off an upset, I’m coming here to fight. I’m big on respect, I want to give respect, and I want to get respect and as long as that’s held, then that’s that’s my point of view on it. He’s the one with the pressure on him, there’s none on me. For me, it’s just trying to stay active until I leave the military here soon. So, this is just something that just came upon me and it lined up right.”

Jahyden Britton

“It’s been a long time coming, but the time is perfect right now. This is the perfect timing for me, my career, and for you to see my talent. I’m comfortable in the ring so I’m ready to showcase it.

“It feels great to be here in Houston. Thank Foster and Ford for coming together and making that fight happen. I wouldn’t be on this card without them, I’m thankful that I can be on something that’s going to be history. I’m just ready, and I’m coming to steal the show for sure.”

Najee West

“I’m definitely coming from out of town, but I don’t feel no pressure. I’m just ready to show my work and that I belong here and that I belong on more shows with you.

“This can change everything for me. I didn’t come to lay down, didn’t come to lose. I come to fight and come to win.”

Frank Espinoza

“I’m ready. I’m going to go in there and do my thing. Just expect a good fight. I’m going to go in there, show my skills, and prove to everybody why I belong here.”

Bryce Blackwell

“I feel like um this going to be one of the best fights on the card. I know Frank is a two-time national champion, but I’m coming in here to win. It’s just how I’m feeling about it. I’m very confident. I’ve put in the work, put in the time, and I came to win, so I’m very confident.”

MAY 30: HOUSTON FIGHT CARD – LIVE ON DAZN

O’Shaquie Foster vs Raymond Ford 
WBC World Super-Featherweight title
12 x 3-minute rounds

Charlie Sheehy vs Nike Theran
Lightweight Contest
10 x 3-minute rounds

Omari Jones vs Diego Osuna
Super-Welterweight Contest
8 x 3-minute rounds

Miguel Flores vs Javon Woodard Jr
Featherweight Contest
10 x 3-minute rounds

Zaquin Moses vs Travis Crawford
Lightweight Contest
6 x 3-minute rounds

Jahyden Britton vs Najee West
Super-Middleweight Contest
6 x 3-minute rounds

Frank Espinosa vs Bryce Blackwell
Middleweight Contest
6 x 3-minute rounds

Julian Montalvo vs Maximus Moya
Super-Featherweight Contest
6 x 3-minute rounds

(May 29, 2026) In a letter to David Benavidez’s promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz, WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman has clarified the justification for designating Benavidez the next mandatory challenger to WBC Cruiserweight Champion Noel Mikaelian.

Rumors spread quickly today that Mikaelian (28-3, 12 KOs) was finalizing a deal to face Zuffa Boxing champion Jai Opetaia (30-0, 23 KOs), however, Sulaiman states that if Mikaelian does choose to face the Australian, or anyone other than Benavidez (32-0, 26 KOs), he will do so as a former WBC champ.

The core point of Sulaiman’s ruling has to do with Mikaelian’s failure to make a voluntary defense within six months of winning his title and the WBC’s bylaw that a WBC Champion one weight class above or below can request to face their champion and automatically become the mandatory challenger.

In his letter, Sulaiman wrote:

The WBC mediated with as much interest and positive intentions without being able to find a final amicable agreement between the parties representing WBC Cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaelian.

The Cruiserweight division has been extremely complicated for some time and during the last annual convention seemed things would have been resolved and a positive path (sic) with the proper rulings which were:

– WBC granted a voluntary defense to champion who resulted from the Badou Jack vs Noel Mikaelian rematch.

– The winner to face 2 mandatories.

After 6 months: still no voluntary.

Alberto Leon was appointed by me to deal with both camps to try to resolve all their problems but as of last night there has been no positive result and the management of Mikaelian continue to be at odds with their promoter.

At the same time a great positive story has developed, our light heavyweight champion fought a cruiserweight bout and conquered WBA and WBO belts. Benavidez visited Mexico and has his mind only in winning the WBC Cruiserweight championship.

The WBC has received a letter from his promoter with the petition to mandate WBC Cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaelian to make his first mandatory defense against WBC Light Heavyweight champion David Benavidez.

The WBC Board has voted in favor to order Cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaelian to fight mandatorily David Benavidez.

The WBC is extremely proud of this ruling as it will certainly bring the best benefits to both parties after witnessing the mediation process which was not successful.

Sincere regards,

Mauricio Sulaiman

WBC President

# # #

ABOUT SAMPSON BOXING

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports, ProBoxTV and several international networks. Sampson Boxing has guided the careers of over 40 world champions, specializing in developing relatively unknown prospects into champions and superstars, including discovering alll-time-great Manny Pacquiao, Hall of Famer Sergio Martinez, World Light Heavyweight, Super Middleweight and Cruiserweight Champion David Benavidez, former two-time champion Javier Fortuna, former world Unified WBA and IBF Super Welterweight Champion Jeison Rosario, former WBA Interim World Featherweight Champion Eduardo “Zurdito” Ramirez, and sibling world champions WBC World Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian Fundora and his sister, WBC, IBF and WBO World Flyweight Champion Gabriela Fundora. Sampson Lewkowicz was inducted into the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame in 2023. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

Social Media:

Instagram: Sampson Lewkowicz

Twitter: @SampsonBoxing

Facebook: sampsonboxing

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Canada (May 20, 2026) – Due to circumstances beyond its control, Three Lions Promotions has announced the postponement of tomorrow’s (May 30) scheduled pro boxing card, “The Homecoming,” at Royal King Palace in Metro Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“Over the last several days, and particularly in the final 48 hours leading into the event, the card has been significantly impacted by a combination of fighter injuries and late withdrawals beyond the control of the promotion,” explained Dan Otter, Managing Director of Three Lions Promotions. “We explored every available option to move forward, but ultimately our fans, sponsors, partners, and fighters deserve the very best product we can deliver. This was an incredibly difficult decision and one that comes at a significant cost to the promotion, but we believe postponing the event is the right decision. We will regroup, rebuild, and return with the event Vancouver deserves.”

Local fighters such as Eric Basran (8-1, 3 KOs) and light heavyweight Buneet “Surrey’s Lion” Bisla (14-1, 7 KOs), female flyweight Nyousha “Superfly” Nakhjiri (14-1, 7 KOs), and super middleweight Harkirat Nijjar (6-0, 5 KOs) were slated to be showcased.

Basran was set to headline against Sebastian “Cerberus” Caucaman (5-1-1, 2 KOs), of Chile, in the 10-round main event for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) International title.

Ticket holders may be reimbursed at point of purchase.

Go to www.threelionspromotions.com for updates regarding the rescheduling of “The Homecoming.”

INFORMATION:

Website: www.threelionspromotions.com

Facebook: #ThreeLionsPromotions

Instagram: @3LionsPromotions @ericbasranboxing

LinkedIN: @DanielOtter

OCEANSIDE, Calif. (May 29, 2026) — Widely regarded as one of boxing’s premier pound-for-pound fighters, undefeated WBA, WBO, and Ring Magazine Minimumweight World Champion Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo (14-0, 11 KOs) of Villalba, Puerto Rico, will return to Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, Calif., to defend his unified titles against General Santos City, Philippines native Joey Canoy (25-5-2, 15 KOs). The 12-round world championship bout will stream live worldwide on DAZN on Saturday, June 20, and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions.

Collazo was last seen delivering another dominant title defense against Mexico’s Jesus “Chiquito” Haro, forcing a stoppage at the conclusion of the sixth round after Haro’s corner advised the referee to halt the contest. With his relentless pressure, elite skill set, and growing résumé of championship victories, Collazo continues to cement his status among the sport’s pound-for-pound elite.

Canoy enters the bout as a dangerous and battle-tested contender, having previously challenged for a world title and capturing the WBC International mini-flyweight title in April 2025. Known for his relentless pressure and knockout power, the Filipino contender now looks to shock one of boxing’s top champions on the global stage.

“I’m so excited to be back in the ring this June 20th against a great and proven opponent like Joey Canoy,” said Oscar Collazo. “Fights like these are what keep my career going and motivate me to give my all in every training camp and every fight night. I’m always grateful to Miguel Cotto Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions for keeping me active and for working to get me the best fights for my career. We remain focused, hungry, and ready for another great challenge.”

“I have been dreaming about this all my life,” said Joey Canoy. “Thank you to my team Sanman boxing and Miguel Cotto promotions for giving me a chance to fight for my dream. I am training hard and I have a month to go. I will do everything to get an upset.”

“Oscar Collazo should be at the top of everyone’s pound-for-pound list, and on June 20, he’s going to remind the world exactly why,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy, Oscar De La Hoya. “He has already beaten many of the best fighters in the division, and instead of taking the easy road, he continues to seek out the toughest challenges available and is stepping into the ring against a top contender in Joey Canoy because that’s what true champions do. Oscar never shies away from greatness; he runs toward it. From top to bottom, this card is loaded with some of Golden Boy’s most exciting prospects and proven contenders, guaranteeing an action-packed night of world-class boxing that Southern California fight fans will not want to miss.”

“Collazo is among the elite of boxing as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world,” said Chairman of Miguel Cotto Promotions, Miguel Cotto. “On Saturday, June 20, he will test his skill once again against Joey Canoy. It will be a true fireworks display in a clash of styles that fans cannot afford to miss.”

Tickets for Collazo vs Canoy go on-sale today, Friday, May 29 at 10:00 am PT and are priced at $100, $75, $50 and $30 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Experience seats will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or GoldenBoy.com.

Media can apply for credentials at https://www.goldenboy.com/press-credentials/. The deadline for credential applications is Monday, June 15.

#

Collazo vs. Canoy is a 12-round fight for the WBA, WBO and Ring Magazine World Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #CollazoCanoy

Adam Azim and Steve Claggett both made weight today ahead of their super lightweight showdown on Saturday, May 30 at the OVO Arena Wembley in London, headlining BOXXER’s Betfred Fight Night, and broadcast live and free-to-air on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. 

Azim is closing in on a world title opportunity as the highly-rated 23-year-old looks to make a statement on his BBC debut. Standing opposite him is experienced Canadian contender Claggett, who is aiming to reignite his own world title ambitions

Francesca Hennessy leads an action-packed undercard as she defends her WBC Silver Bantamweight Title against Aurora De Persio, while IBO Cruiserweight Champion Juergen Uldedaj takes on Austine Nnamdi, and Joel Kodua puts his English Welterweight Title on the line against the unbeaten Will Harrison. 

Official weights from London: 

Super Lightweight Contest  – 12 x 3 rounds

Adam Azim: 139 lb

Steve Claggett: 139.3 lb 

WBC Silver Bantamweight Championship – 10 x 2 rounds

Francesca Hennessy: 117.10 lb 

Aurora De Persio: 118 lb

IBO World Cruiserweight Championship – 12 x 3 rounds

Juergen Uldedaj: 199.5 lb

Austine Nnamdi: 197.4 lb 

English Welterweight Championship  – 10 x 3 rounds

Joel Kodua: 146.5 lb

Will Harrison: 146.10 lb

Heavyweight Contest  – 6 x 3 rounds

Ergal Elezaj: 261.1 lb

Dan Garber: 227.8 lb

Lightweight Contest – 4 x 3 rounds

Saqib Mehmood : 137.5 lb

Simas Volosinas: 130.1 lb

Bantamweight Contest  – 4 x 3 rounds

Vijayraj Karia: 115.3 lb  

Juan Alberto Batista: 120.2 lb 

Super Bantamweight Contest – 4 x 3 rounds

Abdul Khan: 125.1 lb

Liam Fitzmaurice: 126.9 lb 

Heavyweight Contest – 4 x 3 rounds

Derrick Osadolor: 253 lb 

Ryan Labourn: 217.1 lb

Welterweight Contest – 4 x 3 rounds

Oscar McCracken: 146.1 lb 

Steven Wallace: 147.2 lb 

Super Welterweight Contest – 4 x 3 rounds

Mohammad Bilal Ali vs Dale Arrowsmith – to be weighed in tomorrow

Limited tickets available from BOXXER.com 

All the action is available to watch live and free-to-air on BBC iPlayer from 18:30 (BST) and BBC Two from 20:30 (BST). 

This event is presented in association with BOXXER’s official partners Betfred, Riyadh Season, Pepe’s Piri Piri, That Prize Guy, Tixr and Champion.

SAN DIEGO, CALIF., May 28, 2026 – A Wealth of Entertainment, AWE, is proud to announce that this Saturday, May 30^th, AWE is airing live the WBC World Title fight featuring Kevin Lerena (34-4-0) verses Ryad Merhy (35-3-0). This highly anticipated mandatory rematch between two heavy sluggers in the super-cruiserweight class (up to 224lbs), will be a high stakes epic battle with Lerena’s WBC World Title on the line. The fight card, airing live and exclusively on AWE in the United States, begins at 3 pm Eastern, noon Pacific.

“We’re ecstatic to be bringing this epic rematch to AWE viewers,” stated Charles Herring, president of AWE. “Boxing fans across the world love the explosive power of 200 plus pound fighters with their one punch knockout abilities. This exciting rematch with the WBC world super-cruiserweight title on the line is expected to be a must watch world title all-out brawl.”

Kevin Lerena will enter the ring as the WBC World titleholder at the age of 34 and has a professional record of 34-4-0. He has had an impressive career and is arguably at his prime. Lerena has held the World Boxing Council (WBC) super-cruiserweight (also known as bridgerweight) title since 2024. Previously, he held the International Boxing Organization (IBO) cruiserweight title from 2017 to 2021. Yet Lerena will be stepping into the ring coming off a July 2025 loss to Lawrence Okolie for the WBC Sliver Heavyweight title, where Lerena, standing at 6’ 1”, was faced with a true heavyweight in Okolie, standing at 6’ 5”. Lerena is best suited at the super cruiserweight class and has much to prove on Saturday.

the super cruiserweight class and has much to prove on Saturday.

The 33-year-old Ryad Merhy will be stepping into the ring with an impressive 35-3-0 record and coming off a three-fight winning streak, including two bouts in 2025, with wins over Andrej Pesic in June of 2025 and an October 2025 impressive win over Gora Nianga. In his last bout against Nianga, Merhy fought as a heavyweight and scored a dominant second-round TKO victory.

Lerena and Merhy fought back in May of 2023. The nearly evenly matched first bout went the distance, with Lerena walking away with a unanimous decision. This rematch is expected to be unforgettable, with odds makers giving Lerena the upper hand.

About AWE – A Wealth of Entertainment

A Wealth of Entertainment (“AWE”) features a wide range of lifestyles and entertainment programming from exotic travel and outrageous homes to live world championship boxing. AWE is available on over a hundred cable systems, including YouTubeTV, Charter Spectrum TV, Dish Network, Sling, KlowdTV, and more.  For more information, please visit www.awetv.com

EL PASO, TEXAS – MAY 28, 2026 – Today at the El Paso County Coliseum in El Paso, TX, Most Valuable Promotions’ (MVP) WBA lightweight world champion Stephanie Han (12-0, 3 KOs) and the most decorated two-sport athlete in combat sports history, Holly Holm (34-3-3, 9 KOs) met face to face for the final press conference ahead of their upcoming bout on Saturday, May 30, 2026, live on ESPN+ from El Paso County Coliseum in El Paso, Texas.

Joining them at the press conference were MVP’s unified featherweight champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (48-4-1, 31 KOs) and Germany’s top-ranked contender Cheyenne “Pepper” Hanson (17-2, 13 KOs), Mexico’s WBC junior flyweight world champion Lourdes Juarez (39-4, 5 KOs) and MVP’s three-division champion Yokasta Valle (34-3, 10 KOs), and MVP and Australia’s unified middleweight world champion Desley Robinson (11-3, 4 KOs) and Canada’s former world champion Mary Spencer (10-3, 6 KOs).

MVPW-03 Fight Week continues on Friday, May 29, with the Public Weigh-In taking place at El Paso County Coliseum beginning at 6:00pm MT, streaming live on MVP’s YouTube channel and ESPN+. On Saturday, May 30, MVPW-03: Han vs. Holm 2 and Serrano vs. Hanson will take place live from El Paso County Coliseum in El Paso, Texas, with the preliminary card beginning at 1:00pm MT live on ESPN+ and the main card beginning at 7:00pm MT live on ESPN. Tickets for MVPW-03 are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

See quotes below and view the full press conference on MVP’s YouTube Channel and ESPN+. 

STEPHANIE HAN QUOTES

On facing Holm for the second time:  

I know that Holly took this loss personally. I know that she’s a competitor. I know that she’s going to bring it. I know that she’s ready. She looks absolutely amazing. 

On preparing for her bout vs. Holm: 

I give 100% every fight camp, so I’m ready. 

On her prediction for fight night:

I come to win. I don’t train to lose, and I know it’s going to be one hell of a fight. 

On fighting in her hometown of El Paso, TX:

This is a surreal moment. This is a dream come true. 

On having a hometown advantage:

Yes, I do have an advantage because my people are here. El Paso has embraced me as its champion. My coworkers, my family, my friends. Obviously, I want to win because they’re there cheering me on. 

On fighting under men’s rules:

We women, are very strong. We’re capable. We’re powerful, and we could do things just as well as men. And our fights are definitely entertaining.

On how her sister Jennifer Han got her into boxing:

If Jennifer was not in my life, I would not be boxing. That’s one hundred percent. I started boxing because of her. 

On preparing to face Holm with the help of her sister, Jennifer Han: 

To this day, she still drills with me, she still spars with me, she still helps me sell tickets, so my sister is the best sister in the whole wide world. 

HOLLY HOLM QUOTES

On losing to Han in their first bout:

It’s always up to me to be fighting better from the first bell. 

On changes she’s made for her rematch vs. Han:

I’m a very self-reflective fighter. I feel like the more you dig deep and self-reflect on the things you need to do, the better you’re going to become. I’ve made changes and improved also on things I didn’t perform well in the first. I didn’t like not having the rest of the fight, but it shouldn’t have mattered. I should have been doing better from round one, so you’ll see a different me.  

On her thoughts on Han:

I’m fighting a strong champion, a very smart fighter, a very technical fighter, and I have all the respect for her.  

On Han’s preparation for the bout:

She’s training hard, she’s coming for a win, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. I want her to be at her best. I’m going to be at my best. My job is to go in there and make it count. 

On the state of women’s boxing:

MVP has put the belief into these women fighters, and look at where we’re at. On that aspect, I’ve always said they [female fighters] just need the views. They just need the eyes to see them because once they see it, they’ll tune in again. All these girls have done their part in fighting and showing the world they’re very skilled fighters as well.

On her mindset on doing rematches: 

Losing is never an easy thing and never an easy pill to swallow. The best way to move forward and get better is to face it head-on. 

On her training camp for Han vs. Holm 1: 

I had a great training camp for my last fight. I had great advice. Everything leading up to the fight. Everything in the fight. I just didn’t perform how I was supposed to, and that’s when I knew to self-reflect.  

On what she expects to be different from her first fight vs. Han:

I think rematches always bring a little bit of a different fight after two fighters are a little familiar with each other. And I’m a little familiar with her now, as she is with me. 

AMANDA SERRANO QUOTES

On pursuing Christy Martin’s knockout record: 

I say the goal is the knockout record, but the goal obviously is to win. 

On her goals and retirement plans: 

The goal is definitely to get that Christy Martin record, so if it comes this year, then we’ll think about retiring. But listen, until that happens, I love making history. Breaking records. So, that’s the goal. 

On fighting Hanson live on ESPN:  

She’s a young fighter, she’s a hungry fighter. This is a big platform for her and a great opportunity for her to show the world who Cheyenne is. 

On preparing to face Hanson:

I never look past any opponent, and that’s why we trained really hard for Cheyenne. Working on good stuff. Hard punches, and we know Cheyenne is a heavy hitter. So am I, but I invite that. I love that.  

On fighting three-minute rounds: 

We needed change. A lot of women, they want to fight for three minutes. They want to have more time to showcase our skills. More time to get the knockouts. More time to be compared to the men. 

On advocating for women to fight under men’s rules with twelve three-minute rounds: 

I was the first girl to actually go twelve three-minute rounds, and me and my opponent was dancing afterwards. We’re capable, and we’re able to show that we can continue to fight three-minute rounds. 

On making her ESPN fighting debut:

I’ve fought on the biggest platforms in front of lots and lots of people, but there is nothing like fighting on ESPN. 

On MVP showcasing women’s boxing on ESPN: 

MVP is doing bigger and better things for women, and I’m so proud and so honored.

On the similarities between her relationship with her sister, Cindy Serrano, and sisters Stephanie and Jennifer Han:

It’s so beautiful because we have the same story. She [Cindy Serrano] took some time off to have a baby, to have my nephew, and she came back to become a WBO world champion. So it’s a beautiful, beautiful story. 

On her nerves going into bouts:

When I start walking towards the ring, all my fears, all my nerves just start going away, and that’s because I know you guys [her fans] came to support me. You guys are cheering me on, and I want to put on a performance for you guys.  

CHEYENNE HANSON QUOTES

On facing Serrano:

I want to be in the ring with the best. That’s why I’m here. 

On her prediction for Saturday’s bout vs. Serrano:

I totally agree with her [Amanda Serrano]. It’s going to be a great fight. 

On MVP’s impact on women’s boxing:

I can’t put into words what MVP did for women’s boxing. It’s incredible what’s happened in the last couple of years.  

On her fighting style and excitement for Saturday’s bout: 

I’m a heavy hitter. I’ve got an aggressive fighting style, but so does she. I expect a really hard fight. A good fight. An entertaining fight. I can’t wait for it to happen. 

On wanting to face Serrano for years:

I always wanted to fight Amanda Serrano. I said it in interviews years ago, and now I’m here. 

DESLEY ROBINSON QUOTES

On her plans to stay Australia’s unified middleweight world champion:

These are my belts, and I will be taking them home. I think we have a really hard fight on our hands, and we’ve trained so damn hard. 

On her thoughts on Spencer going into Saturday’s bout: 

Big credit to her for what she’s achieved in her amateur career, but we’re in the pros now. I’m a pro. This is my territory, so yeah. I’m excited.  

On her mindset for the bout vs. Spencer: 

I go into every fight like I am the underdog. It gives me more hunger. 

On fighting on ESPN: 

It does feel surreal, but I’m here to enjoy the moment. Make another statement and show why I belong here and why all these other women belong here.   

MARY SPENCER QUOTES

On being a part of MVPW-03: 

I just want to say how dope it is that I’m fighting on a Holly Holm and Stephanie Han undercard. 

On facing Robinson: 

I’m going to be myself in there. I absolutely love fighting, no matter which way or style I’m fighting or who I’m in there with. Me in the ring… I feel at home, and I’m excited to really just enjoy Saturday night.   

On what a victory would mean for her:

I’m very excited, and I can’t wait to take those belts home.

LOURDES JUAREZ QUOTES

**All quotes have been translated from Spanish to English.

On being a part of MVPW-03: 

I’m very happy to be on this big card where we have a lot of world champions. I’m very proud to be a part of MVP. 

On facing Valle: 

As you can see, she [Yokasta Valle] is a champion for a reason, and she’s very disciplined. I believe we’re going to see war in the ring on Saturday night. 

YOKASTA VALLE QUOTES

**All quotes have been translated from Spanish to English.

On her plans for Saturday night: 

I want to show the up-and-coming women fighters that I’m hungry still. Set a good example and show them how it’s done. 

On what motivates her to fight:

What motivated me is the people, and just to be on a big card like this. To show my skills, it means a lot to me. 

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions.

About MVP

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) was founded in August 2021 by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian with a fighter-first ethos. Since its inception, MVP has produced 30 live boxing events, currently promotes nearly 60 fighters, 16 world champions, and 26 top contenders.

MVP has led boxing’s evolution in the streaming era through partnerships with the world’s leading platforms. In November 2024, MVP’s Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2 was the first-ever live professional sports event streamed on Netflix. Paul vs. Tyson shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event of all time with 125 million live viewers worldwide. MVP went on to partner with Netflix twice in 2025 for MVP’s Taylor vs. Serrano 3 and Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day.

Today, MVP is the global home of women’s boxing. MVP’s Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano in 2022 was the first female fight to headline Madison Square Garden, while Taylor vs. Serrano 2 in 2024 saw 74 million viewers globally on Netflix and became the most-watched professional women’s sports event in US history with 47 million AMA in the US. Their 2025 trilogy on Netflix topped an all-women’s megacard that set the official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most world championship belts ever contested on a single fight card, male or female, with 17 world titles, earning nearly 6 million viewers globally. 

TERENCE CRAWFORD, 2025 Fighter of the Year, and MIKAELA MAYER, 2025 Female Fighter of the Year, will attend the 101st BWAA Award Dinner on Thursday, June 25th, in New York City. Ticket and Program Ad deadlines are approaching, so make your plans now. See attached for all information,

The BWAA is celebrating its 101st year of covering the “Sweet Science,” the sport of boxing!

The 101st Annual Boxing Writers Association of America Awards Dinner

Thursday, June 25, 2026, Cocktails at 7:00 PM, Dinner and Awards at 8:15 PM

Edison Ballroom, 240 West 47th Street, New York, NY

Attached please find the following information: 

–  Honorees for 2025 

–  Event Journal Ad Reservation Form

– Ticket Purchase Form

–  Informational Flyer

Honorees:

TERENCE CRAWFORD                                         Fighter of the Year

MIKAELA MAYER                                                    Female Fighter of the Year

CHRIS EUBANK – CONOR BENN I                       Fight of the Year
SHADASIA Green – SAVANNAH MARSHALL       Female Fight of the Year
ROBERT GARCIA                                                   Trainer of the Year                                         
 KEITH CONNOLLY                                                  Manager of the Year
ROY JONES, JR.                                                     Broadcast Excellence

SUGAR RAY LEONARD                                         Good Guy Award
JOHN SHEPPARD                                                   Long and Meritorious Service

CHRISTY MARTIN                                                  Courage In Overcoming Adversity

JON SARACENO                                                    Outstanding Boxing Writing

The Bernie Awards for outstanding boxing coverage in 2025 and 2025 photography winners will also be awarded.

Make your plans now to be a part of this very special event by reserving your seat and an ad in the event program.  The Edison Hotel is offering a 25% discount promo code on rooms.  See the attachments for more information on VIP tables, seats, ads and rooms. 

LONG BEACH, CA (May 28, 2026) – MF Pro continues building its future with the announcement that signed undefeated prospects J’Hon “Pretty Boy” Ingram (9-0, 7 KOs), Amir “Cashman” Anderson (7-0, 7 KOs), David “Dynamite” Lopez (6-0, 5 KOs), and decorated amateur standout Kayla “The Truth” Gomez (Pro Debut) will all compete on the company’s upcoming event, “Pugilist Revolution,” taking place Friday, June 19, 2026, at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California.

The event marks MF Pro’s first event on United States soil and signals a significant step forward in the company’s vision to showcase emerging talent and future stars of the sport.

Headlining the action-packed card, Long Beach native and fan favorite “H2O” Sylve (13-1, 10 KOs) returns home to battle former two-time world champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz (34-9-1, 15 KOs) of Covina, California, in a scheduled 10-round super lightweight main event.

Joining the card are four rising star fighters representing the next wave of boxing talent.

Baltimore, Maryland’s J’Hon “Pretty Boy” Ingram enters the event with an undefeated record of 9-0 with seven knockouts. At 25 years old, Ingram has steadily built a reputation as a sharp and technically polished lightweight. Fighting from the orthodox stance and standing 5-foot-5, Ingram combines precision, confidence, and composure in the ring while continuing to prove himself as one of the division’s emerging names. Speaking on competing in MF Pro’s first event in the United States, Ingram expressed excitement for the opportunity.

“This is a huge opportunity for me and something I don’t take lightly,” said Ingram. “Being part of MF Pro’s first event in the United States means being part of something that’s starting from the ground up. Those moments matter because people remember who helped build something special. I’m planning on putting on a performance that gets fans talking and shows everyone why they call me ‘Pretty Boy.'”

At just 22 years old, Syracuse, New York native Amir “Cashman” Anderson has already shown tremendous knockout power, stopping every opponent he has faced. Standing six feet tall in the middleweight division and fighting out of the orthodox stance, Anderson’s combination of athleticism and finishing ability has made him one of the sport’s most intriguing young talents. Anderson believes the event provides the perfect stage to continue his rise.

“Any time you get a chance to be part of history, you’ve got to make the most of it,” said Anderson. “MF Pro believes in me and I’m excited to show the world why. Fans can expect energy, power, and excitement every time I fight. I’m going to let my hands go and continue proving that I’m one of the most dangerous young fighters coming up right now.”

Representing Oakland, California, 22-year-old David “Dynamite” Lopez enters with an undefeated record of 6-0 with five knockouts. Fighting from the southpaw stance and standing six feet tall in the welterweight division, Lopez has displayed explosive offense and a relentless style that has quickly made him a prospect to watch. Lopez said competing in California only adds motivation.

“Fighting on this card means a lot because it’s another step toward my goals,” said Lopez. “I’m from Oakland, so fighting in California always feels special because I know I’ll have support in the building. This is MF Pro’s first U.S. event, and I want people to remember my performance as one of the highlights of the night.”

Also making headlines will be the professional debut of amateur sensation Kayla “The Truth” Gomez of El Paso, Texas.

At just 22 years old, Gomez enters the paid ranks after building an outstanding amateur career that established her as one of Team USA’s most accomplished young female fighters. Since signing with USA Boxing in 2018, Gomez has earned multiple national championships and cemented her place in history by capturing the first-ever Junior Pan-American Games female flyweight gold medal for Team USA in 2021. Her professional debut at super flyweight now begins the next chapter of an already impressive journey.

“I’ve worked for this moment for a long time,” said Gomez. “Everything I’ve done in the amateurs was preparing me for this next step. To make my professional debut on MF Pro’s first event in the United States makes it even more meaningful because we’re all building something together. Fans are going to see someone who’s hungry, motivated, and ready to begin a new chapter.”

With established names, rising stars, and the debut of one of amateur boxing’s brightest talents, “Pugilist Revolution” promises to deliver a memorable night while introducing fans to the future of the sport.

Tickets priced $80.00 (General Admission), $250.00 (Ringside) + applicable fees are on sale now by clicking HERE. Thunder Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810.

Toppenish, WA, May 28, 2026  —  Natasha Spence and Maricela Cornejo will fight 10 rounds for the World Boxing Association International title on Friday. June 12 at Legends Casino Hotel, on the grounds of the Yakama Nation, in Toppenish, WA.  The event is being promoted by RJJ Boxing.

The card is sponsored by RJJ Saving the Kids, whose slogan is “What are We Fighting For, One Punch Saves a Child’s Life.” RJJ Saving the Kids is an innovative child abduction global charity, whose goal is to rescue abducted children and dismantle trafficking networks worldwide. This new entity was founded by Jackie Siegel, “Queen of Versailles,” and wife of deceased real estate mogul and Westgate Resorts’ owner David Siegel;  Johnny Damon, former Red Sox and Yankees player and World Series Champion with both; Darrell Choates, owner of “Safe Smart City,” a citywide system of cameras and data collection that solves many metropolitan issues, including simple issues such as traffic congestion and as profound as locating child traffickers; Ada Banfill, managing member; and Roy Jones, Jr. All those involved have a personal story to tell regarding child abduction.

“We are Giving Boxing a New Meaning.” – Roy Jones Jr.

The event will be streamed live on 1EZLife.com. Go to 1EZLife.com for more information and to order. “Pay $35 to keep a child alive.” All proceeds will go to non-profit organizations leading the effort to stop trafficking and saving children, with RJJ Boxing at the forefront and Flatirons Church a major partner.

RJJ Saving the Kids is leading the responsibility effort the Flatirons Church. Flatirons Church is a non-profit organization that is leading the effort to saving the kids..

Spence and Cornejo fought for the first time, also at Legends, this past August 12. That bout was for the WBA Inter-Continental middleweight title, which Spence won by unanimous decision (59-55, 59-55, 60-54).

The Legends Casino Hotel Event Center doors open at 6 pm PT and the show begins at 7 pm PT / 10 pm ET. Tickets, priced at $50, $60 and $70, are available at the Legends Casino Hotel Gift Shop and at Ticketmaster here

The undercard will feature two heavyweight bouts on a six-fight card that comprises local boxing stars, some of which are less than an hour’s drive from Legends and others as far as Spokane and Seattle. A Roy Jones’ trained heavyweight hails from Dallas.

“This rematch is a great rematch because it was a great fight the first time,” said Roy Jones Jr. “Maricela just had her baby prior to the first one, so she’s excited to show herself at 100 percent. In the meantime, Natasha fought for and won another title.  It’s a reunion of two great fighters and I can’t wait to see it. Darnell is improving as a heavyweight boxer, after quite a career as a football player. All the other young guys on the card will be fighting to make a name for themselves. I look forward to seeing improvement from everybody since they all want to fight for a title someday soon.”

“I’m excited to be heading back to Washington to put on another show for the fans, said Spence. “Washington might not be my home state, but the vibe was honestly fire. It’s gonna be an electric night.”

“Rematch night will be the fight of the night with a different outcome from the first,” said Cornejo. “This time I’m showing up fully me. Whole camp with my team. Not walking out of that ring without what’s mine. WBA BELT!”

Maricela “La Diva” Cornejo (19-8, 7 KOs) was born in nearby Prosser, Washington and raised in Grandview, Washington, both just a thirty-minute drive from Legends. In just her fifth professional bout, Maricela won the WBC International super middleweight title. In her following bout (fight #6) she traveled to New Zealand to fight for the WBC World Middleweight title but lost. After winning eight straight, Maricela fought for the WBC Super Middleweight title against Franchon Crews Duzern and one year later she fought a rematch against Crews Duzern this time for the WBO and WBA supermiddleweight belts, finishing on the wrong side each time.  On June 3, 2023, Cornejo battled Claressa Shields for the Undisputed World Middleweight Championship – 5 belts on the line but succumbed in a rugged battle. On August 10, 2024, she fought former Undisputed World Champion Cecilia Breakhus for the WBC Interim World Title. Maricela has since had a child just months prior to the fist Spence bout.

Natasha “The Nightmare” Spence (8-8, 6 KOs) hails from Cambridge, Ontario, Canada and has been fighting professionally since 2010. She fought for, but lost, a WBA and WBO super welterweight world title fight, in 2017. After winning the WBA Inter-Continental title against Cornejo on August 8, she won the WBA International Super Welterweight title against Mary McGee on October 9.

In a six-round heavyweight bout, Darnell Thompson (2-0, 2 KOs), from Dallas, TX, will clash with Ryan Bailey (1-7) from Seattle, Washington. Darnell hails from Raleigh, NC, and was a standout defensive tackle in high school, was the No.3-ranked DT nationally in junior college, then continued his football career at Colorado State University followed by the Canadian Football League.Darnell played at three hundred pounds in college and now boxes at about 225. He began his boxing career in 2023. He is trained by Roy Jones, Jr.

In a six-round super lightweight bout, Yakima’s own Andres Reyes (9-4, 2 KOs) will battle Brandon Watley (1-4), from Spokane, Washington. “I’ve spent my whole career fighting in other people’s backyards,” said Reyes. “Now I finally get to fight at home, in front of my family and my city. That support means everything, and I’m ready to give them a performance they won’t forget.”

In a battle of Pacific Northwest heavyweights, another local combatant from Union Gap, Washington, Carlos Villanueva (7-3, 1 KO) will battle Theo Doukas, who will be making his pro debut, from Spokane, in a four-round bout. Villanueva is on a boxing hot streak, with five straight wins.

Isaac Russell, a member of the Kalispel Tribe in Spokane, will be making his professional boxing debut against Derick Funkhouser (0-3) from Medford, Oregon, in a four-round featherweight bout.

In a four-round super middleweight bout, Spokane’s Gerald Wood (2-0, 1 KO) will fight Pasco, Washington’s Jesus Velasquez, who is making his professional debut.

Johnathan Magana, from nearby Kennewick, made his pro debut on May 9 in Little Rock, Arkansas, winning by first round knockout. He will enter the ring on June 12 in front of a collection of family and friends in a four-round super lightweight bout.

About RJJ Saving The Kids

On June 12, fight night, RJJ Saving The Kids will announce future events, of which there will be many. The organization, put together by the founders above, includes over 40 of the most successful entrepreneurs in their respective fields.  They are coming together, combining their resources to assist those on the ground, in the trenches per se, to rescue abducted children.

Partners of RJJ Saving the Kids include . . .

Jim Bergen, lead Pastor of Flatirons Church, the non-profit organization leading the effort to save the kids; Ernest Blackmon, serial entrepreneur; Roger Gaskins, Blockbuster founder and Netflix founding team; Anthony Palma, developer; Gary Green, known as a genuine dot-com pioneer. A two-time Pulitzer Prize journalist with casino industry expertise; Renee Marie Smith, Esquire, promotes entrepreneurship, real estate, lifestyle and the importance of good finances through her ventures MWIRE and Trending 50. Also, she is a strong promoter of female wrestling in high school and specifically UNLV.  Richard Buchanan, founder and CEO of Civilion Footwear who has over two decades of experience in fashion, sport and global brand development. Civilion believes business can be a platform for impact and remains wholeheartedly committed to supporting initiatives that help protect, empower, and improve the lives of children and families around the world. Sam Bonano, manager at Westgate Resorts in Las Vegas; Mehmet Kahyaoglu, President, Whole Stones, Where Desing Meets Perfection; Reuben James Lowing, former Navy Seal, presently in financial services, also called All Into Life! “This is my Blinq card,” https://blinq.me/UmdJtj2vutaE; Craig Sawyer, a former Navy SEAL and founder of Veterans For Child Rescue (V4CR), a nonprofit organization established in 2017. The organization is dedicated to exposing, fighting, and preventing child sex trafficking and abuse within the United States. Jeffrey Weisberg, Executive Director at the River Phoenix Center for Peacebuilding, working in mediation, restorative justice, youth dialogue and community conflict resolution. Ernest Blackmon, owner of RiverRock Colorado, involved in the cannabis / biopharma sector; Joseph Mattord, is involved in cannabis cultivation, agricultural technology and marketing development; Nate DeGraaf, State Farm Insurance agent based in Tallahassee, Florida. Ed Corley, owner of Corley Automotive Group and Ed Corley dealerships, founded in 1987 in New Mexico; Craig Veterans For Child Rescue in Tucson, Arizona; Chief David Coon; Asset Link Corporation; Clark Ortiz; MetroCity Capital Group; PATH Holistic rehabilitation and recovery programs; 1EZLife live event productions; Lara Trump, an endorser of RJJ Saving The Kids.

ORLANDO, FL (May 28, 2026) – Undefeated super middleweight prospect Ronnie Alvarez (6-0, 5 KOs) is set to return to the ring on Saturday, June 13, 2026, when he faces battle-tested Filip Stankovic (9-3, 6 KOs) in an eight-round bout at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona. The contest marks the first scheduled eight-round fight of Alvarez’s young professional career and will be featured on an action-packed Matchroom Boxing card, in association with Boxlab Promotions, streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

Headlining the event is a highly anticipated 12-round bantamweight world title clash between Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez and Antonio Vargas.

For Alvarez, who is co-promoted with Boxlab Promotions, Warriors Boxing and Dreambigg Promotions, this fight represents another major step forward in a career that has shown tremendous promise early on, with five knockouts in six victories. Moving into eight-round competition presents a new challenge, one Alvarez embraces as another opportunity to demonstrate his continued growth as one of boxing’s rising stars. Speaking about his upcoming matchup against Stankovic, Alvarez expressed both confidence and respect for his opponent while emphasizing his commitment to proving himself at the next level.

“Filip Stankovic is a tough fighter and someone I respect because every fighter who steps into the ring is putting it all on the line,” said Alvarez. “He has experience and I know he’s coming to win, so I know I have to be ready. I believe this fight will show people how much I’ve grown and how much better I’ve become as a fighter. Every opponent brings a different challenge, and every fight gives me another opportunity to improve and prove myself. On June 13, I want to show everyone that I belong with the top young fighters in boxing.”

Competing on a major international card with a global audience is another moment Alvarez plans to embrace rather than shy away from.

“This is exactly where every fighter dreams of being,” Alvarez continued. “To compete on a huge stage, on a major card promoted by Matchroom and televised worldwide on DAZN, that’s a blessing and an opportunity I refuse to take lightly. Great fighters are built in moments like these. You don’t become great fighting in the shadows…you become great when the lights are brightest and the pressure is highest. I’m ready to show the boxing world who Ronnie Alvarez is.”

As fans continue to learn more about Alvarez’s fighting style, he promised an exciting performance that reflects both his skill and determination.

“When I step into the ring, fans should expect intensity from the opening bell,” Alvarez continued. “I fight with passion, I fight with purpose, and I fight with pride. I want people watching to feel my energy through the screen and inside the arena. They should expect discipline, power, and a fighter who isn’t afraid to take risks to make a statement. Every time I perform, I want people leaving saying they saw someone special.”

Born from Cuba’s rich boxing heritage, Alvarez also discussed his long-term vision and desire to continue adding to the country’s proud legacy of world-class fighters.

“Cuba has produced some of the greatest fighters to ever put on gloves, and I carry that responsibility with tremendous pride,” Alvarez said. “I want to represent my people, my culture, and everyone who believes in me. Becoming the next great Cuban super middleweight is about building a legacy through hard work, discipline, sacrifice, and respect for the sport. I want young fighters from Cuba and everywhere else to see me and believe that their dreams can become reality if they refuse to quit.”

Boxlab Promotions President Amaury Piedra believes Alvarez continues to make significant strides with every appearance and sees tremendous upside in his future.

“Ronnie continues to distinguish himself with every outing, not merely through victories, but through his development as a complete fighter,” said Amaury Piedra. “As promoters, we closely examine progression, and Ronnie’s evolution has been remarkably impressive. His ring IQ continues to mature, his composure under pressure has improved, and he consistently demonstrates a willingness to learn and grow. Those qualities are often what separate good fighters from exceptional ones.”

Piedra also praised Alvarez’s dedication outside the ring and his commitment to maximizing his potential.

“What is especially encouraging about Ronnie is his understanding that talent alone is never enough,” Piedra concluded. “He approaches his craft with humility and professionalism while remaining deeply committed to improvement. We believe he possesses all the tools necessary to emerge as a serious contender in the super middleweight division, and this upcoming fight is another important chapter in that journey.”

Main Card live on DAZN at 7pm UK time

 Lucas Roehrig 199.5lbs
Faton Tolaj 199.4lbs

Vacant Commonwealth International Featherweight title
Tom Welland 125.3llbs
Saleh Kassim 125.3lbs

Vacant English Super Middleweight title
James Osborne 166.4lbs
Ollie Cooper 166.7lbs

Vacant WBA Continental Super Welterweight title
Dan Toward 153.4lbs
Jak Corrie 153.4lbs

IBF World Super Flyweight title eliminator
Charlie Edwards 114.8lbs
Sikho Nqothole 114.5lbs

NEW YORK, NY – May 28, 2026 – Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) today announced MVPW-05, taking place live on ESPN and the ESPN App on Saturday, August 8 at Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The fifth installment of MVP’s new year-round global platform for women’s boxing, will be headlined by MVP’s and Australia’s undisputed bantamweight world champion Cherneka Johnson (19-2, 8 KOs) vs. MVP’s and Denmark’s former unified champion and Boxrec’s #2 pound-for-pound fighter in the world Dina Thorslund (24-0, 9 KOs) in a potential Fight of the Year contender. Then-WBA champion Johnson stepped in after Thorslund vacated her former unified WBC and WBO belts and withdrew from MVP’s Taylor vs. Serrano 3 in July 2025 due to pregnancy. She now has the opportunity to dethrone Johnson as undisputed world champion, and they will meet in the ring to settle the score in a 10-round championship bout at 118lbs. MVPW on ESPN showcases the sport’s most elite female fighters with championship bouts on every card and will always feature a main card composed entirely of female fighters, with an undercard including a mix of female and male bouts. Tickets for MVPW-05 go on sale Saturday, June 13 at 11am ET on Ticketmaster.com. All media wishing to be credentialed for MVPW-05 must apply HERE.

MVP’s reigning undisputed bantamweight world champion Cherneka “Sugar Neekz” Johnson was born in Tauranga, New Zealand. Fighting out of Gold Coast, Australia, Johnson is a two-weight world champion, currently the undisputed bantamweight world champion at 118lbs and the former IBF super bantamweight world champion. In March 2025, Johnson defeated then-champion Nina Hughes to claim the WBA bantamweight world title. In July 2025, Johnson, newly signed with MVP, made her promotional debut on the undercard of MVP’s historic Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano trilogy card, stepping into the ring against former IBF world champion Shurretta Metcalf in a 10-round undisputed world title showdown as part of the first-ever all-women’s professional boxing card at Madison Square Garden. Following a heated battle, Johnson won via 9th round TKO, becoming the first-ever undisputed Australian champion in the four belt era. The 30-year-old now defended her undisputed title for the first time on Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day in December 2025 in a bloody war against Canadian Amanda Galle.

“I truly believe everything happens for a reason, and for this fight to come together the way it has makes it even more exciting! Now is my time to show what I am truly capable of,” said Cherneka Johnson. “This is the fight I always knew would bring out the best version of me, and I plan to do exactly that — take my belts home, take her pound-for-pound ranking, and claim the bantamweight queen title.” 

MVP’s undefeated Dina Thorslund (24-0, 9 KOs) is a two-division world champion, unified bantamweight world champion and Denmark’s most accomplished boxer, with a national record 12 straight world title fights. Thorslund held the unified WBC and WBO bantamweight titles until June 2025, when she became pregnant. Due to her pregnancy, Thorslund voluntarily relinquished her WBO Championship which was approved by the WBO and she requested and received the approval of the WBC to be designated as Champion in Recess. The then-vacant unified belts were won by Cherneka Johnson. Upon her return to the ring, Thorslund stepped up to 126lbs to defeat Almudena Alvarez, becoming the WBC Interim featherweight champion, however, she felt there was still unfinished business at bantamweight. She now looks to extend her dominance in what will be her 12th world championship bout. She is currently ranked the #2 pound-for-pound women’s boxer in the world by Boxrec—ahead of Katie Taylor, Amanda Serrano, Claressa Shields, and others—and also holds the #7 spot on Ring Magazine’s list.

“I’ve been waiting for this fight since I had to give up my two world titles due to an unexpected pregnancy. Sadly, I lost the baby, and with that I not only lost the family I had dreamed of, but also the titles I gave up for it. That experience has given me an even stronger hunger to come back and reclaim everything that was once mine,” said Dina Thorslund. “Cherneka Johnson needs to be at her absolute best against me, because I’m returning with a level of motivation I’ve never had before. And let’s not forget one important thing — I’m the only undefeated fighter between the two of us, and I still will be after this fight.”

“MVPW-05 features the latest superfight from MVP, uniting two of the best women’s boxers in the world, both of whom feel the 118lbs world titles are rightfully theirs,” said Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “Dina Thorslund is the #2 P4P in the world and has been waiting patiently for this opportunity since vacating her titles, and after just one fight back is an interim world champion again as she continues to define excellence in European boxing. Neekz delivered back-to-back statement performances in 2025 to become the first-ever undisputed champion in Australian boxing history in the four-belt era, male or female, and then reinforced her dominance with a commanding first successful title defense. Johnson vs. Thorslund is unequivocally a Fight of the Year contender from Caribe Royale Resort on Saturday, August 8, live on ESPN.”

“Caribe Royale is pleased to welcome back MVP and MVPW to Central Florida. We are proud to bring MVPW and ESPN to Caribe Royale as they lead a new revolution in women’s boxing,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions and Managing Director of the Caribe Royale Resort. “Both our guests and locals alike are in store for a night of fireworks with multiple titles on the line. This event is just another example of our commitment to bringing world class entertainment and events to both our local residents and out of town visitors as well and who better to do it with than Jake, Nakisa, and the MVP team.”

MVPW-05 is produced and marketed by MVP and promoted by MVP and Boxlab Promotions.

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions, on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions.

About MVP

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) was founded in August 2021 by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian with a fighter first ethos. Since inception, MVP has produced 30 live boxing events, currently promotes nearly 60 fighters, 16 world champions, and 26 top contenders.

MVP has led boxing’s evolution in the streaming era through partnerships with the world’s leading platforms. In November 2024, MVP’s Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2 was the first-ever live professional sports event streamed on Netflix. Paul vs. Tyson shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event of all time with 125 million live viewers worldwide. MVP went on to partner with Netflix twice in 2025 for MVP’s Taylor vs. Serrano 3 and Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day.

Today, MVP is the global home of women’s boxing. MVP’s Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano in 2022 was the first female fight to headline Madison Square Garden, while Taylor vs. Serrano 2 in 2024 saw 74 million viewers globally on Netflix and became the most-watched professional women’s sports event in US history with 47 million AMA in the US. Their 2025 trilogy on Netflix topped an all-women’s megacard that set the official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most world championship belts ever contested on a single fight card, male or female, with 17 world titles, earning nearly 6 million viewers globally. 

About ESPN

ESPN offers its full suite of networks and services directly to fans on the ESPN App, providing more choice, flexibility and access to all of ESPN, including more than 47,000 live events per year, on-demand replays, industry-leading studio shows and original programming, and more. The ESPN App gives fans a unique viewing experience that includes multiview and synchronized two-screen viewing options, swipe-able vertical video and a personalized SportsCenter For You, as well as integrated game stats, ESPN Fantasy sports, betting odds and information from DraftKings, sports merchandise, and more. These features are available to all fans who watch on the ESPN App on mobile and connected TV devices, whether they subscribe directly or through a pay TV package. Bundling options available for fans include a limited time offer for the ESPN DTC Unlimited plan with Disney+ and Hulu for $29.99/month for the first 12 months. For more visit stream.espn.com.

(May 27, 2026) – On Friday, June 5, at College Park Center at the University of Texas in Arlington, Texas, and broadcast live on ProBoxTV (7:30 pm EDT/6:30 CST/4:30 pm PST), two-time world title challenger Edward “Kid” Vazquez (19-3, 6 KOs) of Fort Worth, Texas, will take on Mexican contender Daniel “Caballo” Lugo (28-3-1, 19 KOs) in the 10-round super featherweight main event.

Presented by Garry Jonas (Pro Box Promotions) and Sampson Lewkowicz (Sampson Boxing), the 10-round co-featured bout will pit undefeated super middleweight knockout specialist Weljon “Triggerman” Mindoro (16-0-1, 16 KOs) from Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines, against proven Mexican warrior Elias “Latin Kid” Espadas (23-8-1, 16 KOs) from Merida, Yucatán. And in a very special eight-round lightweight attraction, Alan “Kid Kansas” Garcia (17-1, 12 KOs) of Ulysses, Kansas, will face Bryan Jimenez (18-3, 10 KOs) of Nicaragua.

Tickets to attend ProBoxTV’s “The Contender Series” in person at College Park Center at the University of Texas in Arlington start at $35.75 (including taxes and fees) and are available from UTATickets.com or by clicking HERE.

Here is what Vazquez had to say about training camp, Lugo and more:

How is training going?

It’s going great. It was almost a 10-week training camp. I took a break after my last fight to enjoy time off to relax. I haven’t done that in a while. I feel like for the past ten years I’ve been hammering. Everyone knows me as the guy who doesn’t slow down. I said ‘you know what I’m going to take a week or two.’ I still ran and ate healthy, but I didn’t do any boxing training or sparring for two weeks. It felt good. It felt like a clean slate when I came back. I was excited to be back.

Did you jump back in the gym immediately after your last fight?

No. I have a six-year-old daughter and a wife. I spent time with them to unwind a little bit. Even when I’m not in camp, I’m always hammering, so for me to take some time to be more present and value my family, we all enjoyed that.

Your last performance was nearly flawless, are you still getting better?

I’m still doing everything to the best of my ability. I feel like I’m peaking, but more than anything I’m maturing. I’m finding better ways to delegate my time. I’ve always been known to go hard every day. I’m a little smarter, a little methodical and little more tactical now. I’m not a kid anymore.

What do you know about Daniel Lugo?

He’s a rugged Mexican fighter. He comes forward and he’s skilled. He has a good right hand and good body shots. He’s coming to fight. With as many rounds as he’s fought and the wars he’s had with Mendez and Lara, I know he’s a game fighter and he’ll bring it, so I’ll be ready for whatever. I hope he’s the best Daniel Lugo there is that night.

Two of your three losses, Raymond Ford and Joe Cordina, were what some would say controversial. How do you keep from developing a chip on your shoulder?

It was tough. The first fight with Ford, that was my first loss. It was a little more disappointing than Cordina. Cordina being a world title fight, you would think I’d be more disappointed, but you learn that’s the way the game goes. There’s always some sort of politics involved or whatever you want to call it. At the end of the day, my job is to prepare as best I can. If I do that, the rest is destiny. I only try to control the controllables. That’s how I carry on.

Have you always had such a positive outlook?

I think so but it’s also something you develop over the years of being a fighter since I was seven, so a 23-year career. There’s a business side to the sport too, so you learn the way the things go. Even with that said, I love boxing and I love what I do.

You never miss a chance to pump up your hometown of Fort Worth. What makes it so special for you?

Fort Worth is everything. Our last world champion was Paulie Ayala in the 90s and he was a great world champion and one of the first guys who inspired me to be a fighter. We keep in touch. I think that after Paulie retired, the whole boxing scene in Fort Worth kind of faded out. It’s my duty to bring it back and keep it alive and try to inspire the younger generation coming up. It means everything to me to go to war and provide exciting fights and show these people we don’t get overlooked in Fort Worth. There are champs from Dallas, but Dallas isn’t Fort Worth. There’s not as much notoriety given to Fort Worth fighters. I’m a guy that can get some eyes on the guys here. It’s my duty to go to war and perform well and show them they can do it.

What’s your goal for this year? Are you hoping to land a title shot?

As long as I keep winning, I’m hoping to land a shot soon. I’m hoping to capitalize on all the exposure I’m getting from ProBoxTV. I think they have one more show in Arlington scheduled this year. I’m not overlooking Daniel Lugo, but if all goes well, we will look forward to fighting in the fall and if I keep piling up these wins in spectacular fashion, hopefully it will lead to something bigger. ProBoxTV handles Angelo Leo. Although I’ve been 130 lbs the past couple fights, 126 lbs is still reachable for me. First though, I got to get through these guys.

Also scheduled for that night are several Future Stars series bouts featuring the next generation of contenders and champions.

In an eight-round welterweight bout, Guillermo Keb (14-0, 6 KOs) of Hunucma, Yucatán, Mexico, will face James Bernadin (13-4-1, 6 KOs) of Lancaster, Pennsylvania via Haiti; and Emilio Garcia (4-0, 4 KOs) of Laredo, Texas, will face Steven Thomas (4-1, 2 KOs) of South Carolina in a six-round welterweight battle.

In a six-round super welterweight matchup, Malachi Ross (4-0, 3 KOs) of Grandview, Missouri, will look to stay unbeaten against Derrick Whitley (9-6-2) of Springfield, Massachusetts.

In the night’s televised opener, Carlos Martinez (6-0, 4 KOs) of Dallas, will take on also undefeated Jesus De La Toba (5-0, 5 KOs) of Mulege, Baja California Sur, Mexico, in a six-round super featherweight battle.

On fight night, untelevised action starts at 4:30 pm CST. College Park Center at the University of Texas is located at 600 S Center St, in Arlington.

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HOW TO WATCH FROM HOME

The first and only global sports streaming and media company dedicated exclusively to professional boxing, ProBoxTV is available in 100% of U.S. and Canadian households with broadband access, on a wide range of platforms and media partners, including ProBoxTV’s YouTube and YouTube Espanol Channels, along with Roku, Amazon Prime, Fubo, Xumo (Comcast), Sling, Plex and Google TV.

ABOUT PROBOX TV

ProBox TV is the first and only global sports streaming and media company dedicated exclusively to professional boxing. Founded in 2022 by its CEO Garry Jonas, ProBox TV provides boxing fans with the sport’s premiere schedule of contender-level live events and daily/weekly long-form studio content, including talk and debate shows, podcasts, etc. Serving millions of fans globally, ProBox TV is available for free through numerous platforms and media partners, including YouTube, Amazon, Fubo TV, LG, Plex, Roku, Samsung, Tubi, Vizio and more.

For more information, visit us online:

YouTube: @ProBoxTV

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Web (English): proboxtv.com

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MOSCOW, RUSSIA – The eyes of the boxing world will descend on the Russian capital this summer as WBA Heavyweight champion Murat Gassiev makes the first defence of his crown against 2016 Olympic gold medalist Tony Yoka at IBA Pro 19 on July 11.

Co-promoted by IB Challenger, Epic Sports & Entertainment, Patriot Promotion, Ural Boxing Promotions, Queensberry Promotions, and Yoka Boxing, in association with Winline, IBA Pro 19 promises to deliver one of the most explosive heavyweight match-ups of 2026.

Russian icon Murat Gassiev enters the contest as the reigning WBA Heavyweight champion, having become his nation’s first World heavyweight titleholder in over a decade with his electrifying sixth-round knockout of Bulgaria’s Kubrat Pulev at IBA Pro 13 in December.

The 32-year-old North Ossetia-native boasts a fearsome record of 33-2 (26 KOs), and is considered by many to be one of the sport’s most devastating punchers – as demonstrated by his highlight reel ‘Knockout of the Year’ of Pulev in-front of a capacity crowd at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium.

Now, the man fittingly nicknamed ‘Iron’ returns home to defend the belt that Russia waited thirteen years to reclaim.

WBA Heavyweight World Champion, Murat Gassiev, said: “It is an honour to defend the WBA World Heavyweight Title for the first time, and to do it at home in front of my Russian fans makes it extra special. Tony Yoka is a tremendous champion, an Olympic gold medallist, a big, strong heavyweight with serious skills. I have huge respect for him. I would like to thank both my team and President Kremlev for this opportunity. On July 11, I will do my absolute best to win and keep the belt in Russia.”

In the opposite corner, Paris puncher Tony Yoka (15-3, 12 KOs) arrives in Moscow with an opportunity to further cement his place in the French boxing history books.

After the 33-year-old famously captured Olympic super-heavyweight gold at Rio 2016, Yoka now sets his sights on becoming his nation’s first ever World Heavyweight champion in the professional ranks. 

Standing at a gargantuan 6 foot 7″ tall, Yoka possesses the size, reach and skill-set to trouble any heavyweight on the planet. Now, just one fight away from realising his ultimate ambition, a world title, the Frenchman is adamant he will leave Moscow as the new force in the blue ribbon heavyweight division.

Olympic Gold Medalist, Tony Yoka, said: “I’m going to win this world title for all my people in France and Congo that have not only stuck with me, but still believe in me becoming a professional world champion. I’ve been working hard for over two years now with Don Charles and I’m ready to showcase to the boxing world the changes in my professional Boxing. I want to thank Don and my team for backing me 100% through this period, as well as Frank and George Warren at the best promoters in the world, Queensberry, for getting me this opportunity which I will make the most of.”

Umar Kremlev, President of the International Boxing Association (IBA), said: “The IBA is incredibly proud to bring an outstanding heavyweight fight of this magnitude to Moscow. Murat Gassiev and Tony Yoka represent the absolute pinnacle of boxing excellence – one an incredible WBA world champion defending his crown at home, the other a legendary Olympic gold medallist fighting for professional glory. This event represents the key value the IBA stands for: providing the opportunity and ultimate platform for the world’s premier talent to compete at the highest level. July 11 will not just be an unforgettable IBA Pro evening for the fans, being  a landmark, historic moment for global boxing.”

Hall of Fame Promoter, Frank Warren said: “This is a great fight and one that we at Queensberry truly believe our man will win. Tony and Don Charles have been working extremely hard in the gym, so we fully expect them to go to Russia and do the business against a tough opponent in Gassiev and bring the title back to France.”

Al Siesta, promoter for IB Challenger said: “Murat Gassiev is the WBA World Heavyweight Champion and after he claimed the title in Dubai, we promised that he would be in exciting fights in 2026. Gassiev vs Yoka is a very exciting fight. Tony is an Olympic gold medalist, a giant of a man and a French sporting hero. He is coming to Moscow to take Murat’s belt, but Gassiev is ready. This is an excellent heavyweight title fight and we are honoured to deliver it on home soil for Murat. To the boxing world: get your tickets and get ready, because July 11 in Moscow is going to be unforgettable.”

IBA Pro 19 is promoted by IB Challenger, Epic Sports & Entertainment, Patriot Promotion, Ural Boxing Promotions, Queensberry, and Yoka Boxing, in association with Winline.

ORLANDO, FL (May 26, 2026) – Boxing fans searching for action need to look no further than Boxlab Promotions’ undefeated featherweight Jordan Orozco (16-0, 16 KOs), one of the sport’s fastest-rising stars and most dangerous young punchers. The all-action knockout artist returns to the ring on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, on an event promoted by Most Valuable Promotions in association with Boxlab Promotions, streaming live worldwide on DAZN.

With a perfect record and a remarkable 100 percent knockout ratio, Orozco has quickly become must-see television for fight fans around the world. In an era where many fighters prioritize caution and strategy over entertainment, Orozco has separated himself by delivering something increasingly rare, nonstop aggression, explosive power, and a style built to create memorable moments.

Every time Orozco steps into the ring, fans know they are likely witnessing something special. Whether it’s his relentless pressure, his willingness to exchange punches, or his ability to end fights in devastating fashion, the young featherweight has developed a reputation as one of boxing’s most fan-friendly attractions.

For Orozco, excitement isn’t accidental…it’s part of his identity as a fighter. He believes fans spend their hard-earned money expecting entertainment, and he embraces the responsibility of delivering unforgettable performances.

Explaining the mindset that drives him each time he enters the ring, Orozco says his objective has always been to create moments people remember long after the fight ends.

“I don’t step into the ring thinking about winning a boring decision,” said Orozco. “I go in there looking to make a viral statement. Fans spend money and take time out of their lives to watch us fight, and I feel like they deserve excitement. They deserve action. I want people jumping out of their seats. I want people talking about my fight after they leave the arena. When I throw punches, I throw them with bad intentions because I’m trying to end the night. That’s the mentality I carry every time I put on the gloves.”

Orozco’s power has become one of the most talked-about weapons in the featherweight division, but the undefeated knockout artist insists his approach goes beyond simply chasing highlight-reel finishes. He believes controlled aggression and maintaining pressure creates opportunities that eventually lead to devastating endings.

Discussing his attacking style, Orozco made it clear that he fights with a purpose and refuses to take his foot off the gas pedal.

“I always believe pressure breaks people,” Orozco continued. “You can see it happening during fights. At first they feel confident, but then they start feeling the punches, they start feeling the pace, and things begin to change. I don’t go in there looking to touch guys and move around all night. I go in there looking to break them mentally and physically. Every punch I throw has a purpose behind it. I want opponents to feel me from the opening bell. I want them to understand right away they’re in for a hard night.”

Despite his growing popularity and rising profile, Orozco remains motivated by one simple goal, giving fans the type of excitement that made him fall in love with boxing in the first place. He understands that action fighters create lasting connections with audiences, and he wants to build that reputation throughout his career.

As he prepares for another appearance on a major platform, Orozco says his approach will never change regardless of how high he climbs in the sport.

“People can expect the same Jordan Orozco every single fight,” he concluded. “I’m not changing because things get bigger. I don’t care if it’s a small venue or a world title fight one day in front of thousands of people. My job is to entertain and dominate. I want fans to know that when they see my name on a card, they aren’t getting a slow fight. They’re getting action. They’re getting power. They’re getting someone who’s coming to finish the job. That’s who I am and that’s who I’ll always be.”

“Jordan is one of those special fighters that immediately gets your attention because he brings something fans can’t teach and trainers can’t create—natural excitement,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions. “A perfect record with 16 knockouts in 16 fights already speaks for itself, but what excites me even more is knowing he’s still developing and still learning. He’s improving every time out and hasn’t even come close to reaching his full potential. Jordan has that rare combination of power, confidence, charisma, and a fan-friendly style that people want to see. Fighters like him don’t come around often. We’re extremely excited about his future because we truly believe he has all the tools to become one of the biggest stars in boxing.”

As Orozco continues his ascent toward championship contention, his upcoming appearance in Orlando represents another opportunity to strengthen his growing reputation as one of boxing’s brightest young stars and one of the sport’s most electrifying attractions. With a perfect 16-0 record and 16 knockouts, Jordan Orozco isn’t just winning fights, he’s making sure fans remember every second of them.

(May 25, 2026) – On Saturday, July 18, ProBoxTV is back in San Bernardino, California for another episode of The Contender Series, a night of all-action West Coast boxing featuring WBC #14-ranked Bryan “Nino Maravilla” Flores (28-1-1, 16 KOs) Las Vegas via Juarez, Mexico, taking on Jonathan “Thunder” Navarro (18-2, 9 KOs) of East Los Angeles in the 10-round super lightweight main event, live from the NOS Events Center (7:00 pm EST/4:00 pm PST) and presented by Garry Jonas (Pro Box Promotions) and Robert Garcia.

In the night’s co-feature, current champion Adelaida “La Cobra” Ruiz (18-1-1, 8 KOs) of Los Angeles, will face interim champion Ginny Fuchs (4-0, 1 KO) of Houston in a 10-round battle for the WBC Women’s World Super Flyweight Championship.

And in a special 10-round super welterweight added attraction, southpaws Joshua Kevin Anton (13-0, 12 KOs) of Palmdale, California, and Vladimir Hernandez (17-7, 7 KOs) of Stockton, California via Durango, Mexico, will collide.

Tickets for this event are available through thundertix.com.

In the 10-round welterweight chief supporting bout, Ruben “El Pollito” Aguillar (24-0-1, 21 KOs) of Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico, takes on Tre’Sean “Trigger” Wiggins (17-5-4, 10 KOs) of Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

Future Stars action to begin the evening features, Anthony “2 Quick” Cuba (12-1-2, 5 KOs) of Los Angeles battling Misael ‘Pichon’ Cabrera (18-3-1, 12 KOs) of Sonora, Mexico, in a super lightweight eight-rounder; and Charles “LOLO” Harris (12-1, 7 KOs) of Rialto, California, returning to action in another eight-round super lightweight bout against Jason “El Gallo” Limon (11-2-1, 2 KOs) of San Antonio.

More exciting fights will be announced shortly.

On fight night, doors open at 3:00 pm PST. Ages 2+ require a ticket. No live streaming or filming are allowed. The National Orange Show Events Center is located at 689 S. E St. in San Bernardino.

# # #

HOW TO WATCH FROM HOME

The first and only global sports streaming and media company dedicated exclusively to professional boxing, ProBoxTV is available in 100% of U.S. and Canadian households with broadband access, on a wide range of platforms and media partners, including ProBoxTV’s YouTube and YouTube Espanol Channels, along with Roku, Amazon Prime, Fubo, Xumo (Comcast), Sling, Plex and Google TV.

ABOUT PROBOX TV

ProBox TV is the first and only global sports streaming and media company dedicated exclusively to professional boxing. Founded in 2022 by its CEO Garry Jonas, ProBox TV provides boxing fans with the sport’s premiere schedule of contender-level live events and daily/weekly long-form studio content, including talk and debate shows, podcasts, etc. Serving millions of fans globally, ProBox TV is available for free through numerous platforms and media partners, including YouTube, Amazon, Fubo TV, LG, Plex, Roku, Samsung, Tubi, Vizio and more.

For more information, visit us online:

YouTube: @ProBoxTV

YouTube Espanol: @ProBoxTVEspañol

Web (English): proboxtv.com

Web (Espanol): proboxtv.com/es

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Facebook: facebook.com/ProBoxTVStreaming

Twitter: twitter.com/probox_tv

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Support: support@proboxtv.com

The World Boxing Association Championships Committee has officially ordered the mandatory lightweight title bout between reigning champion Gervonta Davis and the division’s No. 1 contender, Floyd Schofield.

The pioneering organization sent formal notification to both camps this Saturday, May 23, granting the parties a 30-day negotiation period that will expire on June 22.

Under Championship Rule C.10 — Title Defense Periods — champions in all divisions outside of heavyweight are required to defend their titles every nine (9) months from the date the championship was obtained. In Davis’ case, his last appearance came on March 1, 2025, when he retained the title via majority draw against Lamont Roach, leaving the mandatory defense significantly overdue.

Additionally, WBA Rule C.13 — Bout Limitations — states that a champion may not compete against any boxer other than the official mandatory challenger within sixty (60) days after the expiration of the mandatory defense period.

The WBA will now allow the respective teams the allotted negotiation window to reach an agreement. Should the parties fail to come to terms — or if either side refuses to negotiate — the organization may proceed with a purse bid in accordance with its internal rules and regulations.

May 24, 2026 — Zuffa Boxing has signed three undefeated talents from across the pond—Scottish middleweight Sam Hickey, welterweight Alex “The Villain” MacMillan, and light heavyweight Leon Hughes—to long-term promotional agreements.

Hickey, MacMillan, and Hughes will make their respective Zuffa Boxing debuts on Saturday, June 6, as part of the ZUFFA BOXING 07: BILLAM-SMITH vs. ROZICKI card, headlined by Bournemouth-born Chris Billam-Smith against Canadian KO artist Ryan Rozicki.

Hickey will face an opponent to be named in an eight-rounder, MacMillan will step up against the durable Tyler Rivers (6-3) in a six-rounder, and Hughes will fight Bulgaria’s Mario Vergiev (8-4, 5 KOs) in a six-rounder.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased via BIC.co.uk.

Hickey (4-0, 1 KO) was among the most decorated Scottish amateurs in recent decades. He won five national titles and captured gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games while earning Best Male Boxer honors. He turned pro under the guidance of Team GB Performance Director Rob McCracken, who trained luminaries such as Anthony Joshua and Carl Froch to professional championship glory. Hickey will make his 2026 debut following a 3-0 campaign in 2025 that was capped by a points victory over Aljaz Venko in December.

Hughes (4-0, 3 KOs) trains out of the Jennings Boxing Gym in Chorley, England, and turned pro in March 2025 after an amateur run that included multiple regional titles and a silver medal at the 2024 England Boxing National Championships. Within his first calendar year as a pro, he notched three stoppages in two rounds or less.

Hailing from Morecambe, England, MacMillan (3-0, 2 KOs) trains under Shane McGuigan at the McGuigan Gym in East London. He is stablemates with Billam-Smith and Cutler and has sparred with the likes of Chris Eubank Jr. and former Team GB standout Pat McCormack. As an amateur, he won the Haringey Box Cup in 2024. He won three bouts in his first four months as a pro, most recently stopping Joe Blandford with a body-shot barrage in the second round.

Zuffa Boxing 07 will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and will stream exclusively on Paramount+ in the U.S. and Canada.

Media can apply for credentials to the event via Access. 

About Zuffa Boxing
Zuffa Boxing is a joint venture between TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (“TKO”) (NYSE: TKO) and Sela, the entertainment conglomerate. TKO serves as managing partner, providing day-to-day operational expertise, management, and oversight of the promotion, with executive leadership anchored by UFC President and CEO Dana White and WWE President and TKO Board Member Nick Khan. The promotion aims to reimagine the sport of boxing by evolving the current model to restore the sport’s rightful place in the forefront of the global sports ecosystem. For more information, follow @Zuffa_Boxing on X; and @ZuffaBoxing on Snapchat, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok.

About Sky

Sky connects and entertains millions of people across Europe. At the heart of everything we do, is a belief that people deserve better. For decades, we’ve shaken up every category we entered to give people what they love, to make life a little easier and to provide great value. That’s how we bring millions of customers the joy of a better experience in TV, broadband and mobile.

In TV, we offer the best sports coverage, unmissable TV and the smartest ways to stream and aggregate the TV you love. In broadband, we power homes and businesses, with a fast, reliable connection. In mobile, we bring people closer, with plans at unbeatable value. And now, you can even keep your home connected and protected, through our smart insurance. We design our products to fit seamlessly into your life, with service whenever and however you need it.

That’s how we do better for customers. And we believe in better for society too. We power the cultural economy in the UK and beyond, making award-winning news, original sport, and entertainment. We contribute billions to UK GDP, creating and sustaining thousands of jobs and sharing both our journalism and our coverage of the arts, free of charge. We are cutting emissions and making recyclable, energy-efficient products, and we give back, through free internet access and digital skills for under-served communities and young people. Sky is owned by Comcast Corporation, a global media and technology company.

About streaming service NOW

NOW is the home of brilliant entertainment and broadband. Join in for the latest movies, critically acclaimed shows and biggest live sports.?

With a Cinema Membership, access the latest blockbusters and unmissable collections with over 1000 movies on demand. With an Entertainment Membership, enjoy award-winning dramas and the best of HBO – plus Sky Originals and epic kids TV. With a Sports Membership, stream all 12 Sky Sports channels and every Sky Sports+ stream, and catch live action from the Premier League, EFL, Formula 1, England & ICC Cricket, ATP & WTA Tennis, Golf majors, Premier League Darts, NFL, and so much more.?

Plus, members can also enjoy a premium experience with the Ultra Boost* add-on, which features stunning Ultra High Definition (UHD) High Dynamic Range (HDR), immersive surround sound, and ad-free** viewing on up to 3 devices at once. Or members have the option to enjoy an upgraded experience with Boost – ad-free** streaming in VOD, Full HD and Surround Sound on up to two devices at once.?

For ultrafast broadband, members can enjoy NOW Full Fibre 300, NOW Full Fibre 100, NOW Full Fibre 75 and NOW Superfast membership, all powered by Sky’s award-winning broadband network.?

Ultra Boost features are available on selected content and devices only. 

About Paramount+ 

Paramount+ is a premium streaming subscription service delivering live sports, breaking news, and a Mountain of Entertainment™, and is a cornerstone of the Direct-to-Consumer division of Paramount, a Skydance Corporation (Nasdaq: PSKY), a leading, next-generation global media and entertainment company. The Company’s portfolio unites legendary brands, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Television, CBS – America’s most-watched broadcast network, CBS News, CBS Sports, Nickelodeon, MTV, BET, Comedy Central, SHOWTIME®, Paramount+, Pluto TV, and Skydance’s Animation, Film, Television, Interactive/Games, and Sports divisions. 

For more information about Paramount+, please visit www.paramountplus.com, and follow @ParamountPlus on social media.

About Sela
Founded in 1997, Sela is a Saudi Arabian company specializing in creating, constructing, and operating unique destinations and recreational experiences across sports, entertainment, culture, and hospitality sectors. Initially recognized as Saudi Arabia’s first FIFA-recognized athletes’ representation company, Sela expanded into sports marketing and has since diversified into broader recreational industries. 

About TKO
TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: TKO) is a premium sports and entertainment company. TKO owns iconic properties including UFC, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization; WWE, the global leader in sports entertainment; and PBR, the world’s premier bull riding organization. Together, these properties reach 1 billion households across 210 countries and territories and organize more than 500 live events year-round, attracting more than three million fans. TKO also services and partners with major sports rights holders through IMG, an industry-leading global sports marketing agency; and On Location, a global leader in premium experiential hospitality.

CHETUMAL, Quintana Roo, Mexico (May 22, 2026) — Toro Promotions’ gifted trio of prizefighters recently put on an impressive show in Chetumal, Mexico. The card featured three of its fighters in action: undefeated Nicaraguan super featherweight Nilo Guerrero (12-0, 8 KOs), Georgian heavyweight Tsotne “Mr. T” Rogava (13-1-0, 8 KOs), and devastating Armenian lightweight prospect Narek Hovhannisyan (4-0, 3 KOs).

“We’ll be back there,” Toro’s Danny Torosyan said. “They’re good people who want us to help them develop boxing and increase tourism. We put on a good show. Our fighters showed that Toro Promotions has world-class fighters. Nilo defended his WBC title, and he will move up in the rankings. Rogava bounced back nicely from his loss in the WBC Grand Prix. Narek is already one of the best body punchers in boxing. He moves fast and strikes hard. His body shots have resulted in a lot of knockdowns and three knockdowns.”

The 25-year-old Guerrero successfully defended his World Boxing Council (WBC) FECARBOX Super Featherweight title belt, winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Juan “Pelon” Pablo Ramirez (13-5- 2 KOs), of Mexico, in the main event.

Guerrero effectively used his height and reach advantage to control the fight, sticking his stiff jab to set up his other punches from the opening to final bell. Guerrero’s constant activity and nifty defense never allowed Ramirez to sit in the pocket and punch.

Tsotne Rogava (R)

In the co-featured event, Rogava overpowered and outclassed his Mexican opponent, previously unbeaten Mauricio “La Mole” Perez (8-1-1, 6 KOs), enroute to an 8-round unanimous decision, winning each of the 8 rounds on all three judges scorecard. ?Rogava’s power and strength were too much for Perez to handle.

The 6’ 3”, 250-pound Rogava, a former kickboxer who represented Ukraine in boxing at the 2020 Olympics, bounced back impressively from his lone loss as a pro in last year’s inaugural WBC Grand Prix in Saudi Arabia.

Narek Hovhannisyan (R) is a prospect to watch

Hovhannisyan destroyed hometown favorite Julian Cady Del Angel (4-2-1, 1 KO), of Mexico, in a Special Lightweight Attraction match, stopping him in the opening round. The aggressive Hovhannisyan floored Angel in the opening round and never slowed down, punishing him with a lethal body attack, Angel was knocked down twice in the second, the latter with a brutal liver shot that resulted in a technical knockout when Angel was unable to rise off the canvas late in the second round.

Next up for Toro Promotions is “King of the West”, in association with Whitfield Haydon, on June 20 at Celebrity Theater in Phoenix, Arizona. Toro has matched its top heavyweights, Nigeria-born Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (16-3-1, 14 KOs), fighting out of Phoenix, and Chandler-based Dante Stone (21-2, 13 KOs), to battle in the 10-round main event for the World Boxing Council (WBC) FECARBOX and the vacant Arizona State heavyweight titles.

Ibeh, who previously played collegiate and professional football in the Canadian League, will be defending his WBC FECARBOX championship belt. Stone finished as runner-up in last year’s inaugural WBC Grand Prix championship final held in Saudi Arabia.

Toro fighters’ official results from Mexico :

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS

Nilo Guerrero (12-0, 8 KOs), Managua, Nicaragua

WDEC10 (97-93, 97-93, 96-94)

Juan Pablo Ramirez (14-5, 2 KOs), Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico

(Guerrero retained the WBC FECARBOX lightweight title)

CO-FEATURE — HEAVYWEIGHTS

Tsotne Rogava (13-1, 8 KOs), Marina del Rey, California, USA by way of Georgia

WDEC8 (80-72, 80-72, 880-72)

Mauricio Perez (8-1-1, 6 KOs), Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico

SPECIAL LIGHTWEIGHT ATTRACTION

Narek Hovhannisyan (4-0, 2 KOs), Los Angeles, California, USA by way of Armenia

WTKO2 (2:45)

Julian Cady Del Angel (4-2-1, 1 KO), Quintana Roo, Mexico

(May 22, 2026) – This Saturday, May 23, 2026, ProBoxTV is going international with two world-class shows broadcast live from outside the United States in one day, beginning with an important show emanating out of the Willy-Jürissen-Halle in Oberhausen, Germany (12:00 pm EDT) and finishing with an action-packed night of Mexican boxing from Arena La Paz in La Paz in Baja California Sur, Mexico (9 pm EDT).

The Oberhausen, Germany, show, presented by Ahmet Oener of Arena Box Promotions, will feature an eight-round battle of undefeated fighters, as Badien Hasso (22-0, 11 KOs) of Germany via Shekhan, Iraq, takes on Victor Vicente “The Junior” Correa (11-0, 11 KOs) of Mexico City for the WBC International Light Heavyweight Championship.

In the 12-round co-feature with world-championship implications, WBC #3-ranked Ermal “The Albanian Sniper” Hadribeaj (22-0-1, 8 KOs) Miami Beach via Tirana, Albania will battle WBC #1-, WBO #5-, and IBF 8-ranked French superstar Bakary Samake (19-0, 11 KOs) Aubervilliers, Seine-Saint-Denis, France, in a WBC Super Welterweight Final Title Eliminator.

In the eight-round chief supporting bout, Luis Vela (6-0, 5 KOs) Rovereto, Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy, faces Oussama Kebdani (10-1, 3 KOs) from Germany via Berkane, Morocco, for the WBC International Super Lightweight Championship.

In an eight-round battle of cement-fisted big men, Mourad “White Wolf” Aliev (14-1, 11 KOs) of Hamburg, Germany via Moscow will go to war with Raphael Akpejiori (19-2, 18 KOs) Miami, Florida, via Lagos, Nigeria, for the WBC International Silver Heavyweight Championship.

Also scheduled on this blockbuster show is an eight-round fight for the WBC International Silver Featherweight Championship between Muhamet Qamili (17-1-1, 8 KOs) Roma, Lazio, Italy, via Roskovec, Albania, and Alessangel “El Colmillo de Oro” Mayora (18-1, 14 KOs) of Montesano, La Guaira, Venezuela.

Also scheduled for action is a six-round heavyweight bout featuring WBC Grand Prix heavyweight finalist Ahmed “Bosnian Steel” Krnjic (7-1, 4 KOs) of Zenica, Bosnia And Herzegovina; a six-round heavyweight showcase for Konstantinos Plateias (2-0, 2 KOs) of Marousi, Greece; a six-round super middleweight bout featuring Sarhad Nouzad (11-1, 4 KOs) of Greifswald, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany; and a six-round middleweight bout for Ali El Said (12-5-2, 7 KOs) of Essen, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany via Beirut.

All unannounced opponents are TBA at time of release.

And then, at 9:00 pm EDT, ProBoxTV will return with a night of Mexican-style action, emanating from Arena La Paz in La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico and presented by TM Boxing, ProBoxTV, and Sampson Boxing.

In the 10-round featherweight main event, top featherweight contender Luis “The Twist” Nunez (23-0, 15 KOs) of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, will take on rugged Carlos “Gatito” Perez (19-4-1, 6 KOs) of Degollado, Jalisco, Mexico.

The eight-round middleweight co-featured match pits hometown hero Jaime “Monstruo” Osuna (10-0, 5 KOs) of La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico, against established countryman Oliver “Monaguillo” Quintana (23-6, 16 KOs) of Mexicali, Baja California Norte, Mexico.

In the eight -round super welterweight chief-supporting bout, Alejandro Torres (7-0, 3 KOs) of Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico, takes on local prospect Juan “Perron” Cosio (4-2-1, 2 KOs) of La Paz.

On the undercard, Daniel Berumen (4-0-2, 1 KO) of La Paz takes on Carlos Garcia Garces (5-0, 5 KOs) of Mexico City in an eight-round welterweight battle; and Ivan “Colorado” Jimenez (6-0-1, 3 KOs) of Cancun takes on Jeovani Barajas (5-0-1,4 KOs) of Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico, in the six-round bantamweight opener.

# # #

HOW TO WATCH FROM HOME

The first and only global sports streaming and media company dedicated exclusively to professional boxing, ProBoxTV is available in 100% of U.S. and Canadian households with broadband access, on a wide range of platforms and media partners, including ProBoxTV’s YouTube and YouTube Espanol Channels, along with Roku, Amazon Prime, Fubo, Xumo (Comcast), Sling, Plex and Google TV.

ABOUT PROBOX TV

ProBox TV is the first and only global sports streaming and media company dedicated exclusively to professional boxing. Founded in 2022 by its CEO Garry Jonas, ProBox TV provides boxing fans with the sport’s premiere schedule of contender-level live events and daily/weekly long-form studio content, including talk and debate shows, podcasts, etc. Serving millions of fans globally, ProBox TV is available for free through numerous platforms and media partners, including YouTube, Amazon, Fubo TV, LG, Plex, Roku, Samsung, Tubi, Vizio and more.

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SAN JOSE, Calif. (May 20, 2026) — Golden Boy Promotions made a splash in San Jose today with a press conference kicking off fight week for the highly anticipated DAZN headlining debut of undefeated knockout artist Amari “The Reaper” Jones (16-0, 14 KOs), who will perform in front of his hometown Bay Area fans against former world champion Vincenzo “Il Capo” Gualtieri (25-1-1) of Germany on Friday, May 22, in a 12-round middleweight IBF eliminator at SAP Center. The event will stream live worldwide on DAZN.

Tickets for Jones vs. Gualtieri are still available and are priced at $150, $100, $75, $50, and $30, plus applicable fees. A limited number of Golden Boy VIP Experience packages will also be available and include exclusive merchandise and premium fight night upgrades. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster or Golden Boy Promotions.

In the co-main event, undefeated cruiserweight Robin Safar (19-0, 13 KOs) will challenge for the WBC Silver cruiserweight title against Buenos Aires, Argentina’s Yamil Peralta (18-1-1, 10 KOs) in a 12-round showdown. Peralta will be making his U.S. debut after capturing multiple regional titles and previously challenging for the WBC interim cruiserweight title.

Also featured on the televised DAZN card, rising super middleweight contender Darius Fulghum (14-1-1, 12 KOs) will compete in a 10-round bout against Miami-based Yoanki Urrutia (17-2, 7 KOs). Opening the card, Las Vegas’ Tristan Kalkreuth (16-1, 11 KOs) returns in a 10-round cruiserweight clash against Michoacán, Mexico’s Marco Canedo (8-3-1, 5 KOs).

On the preliminary card, Fresno, California’s Jordan Fuentes (6-0, 2 KOs) will compete in a six-round super flyweight bout against an opponent to be announced. Salinas, California’s Jose Medrano (2-0, 1 KO) will take on Aurora, Colorado’s Anel Dudo (4-8-1, 1 KO) in a four-round super featherweight fight. Jordan Panthen, known as “The Patriot,” will fight for the WBA Intercontinental middleweight title in a 10-round bout against Jean Rivera (10-2, 1 KO) of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Los Angeles’ John “Scrappy” Ramirez (16-1, 9 KOs) will face Rosario, Argentina’s Lucas Fernandez (14-4-2, 9 KOs) in a 10-round super flyweight contest. Opening the evening, Los Angeles’ Enkhmandakh Kharkhuu (7-0, 3 KOs) will square off against Jalisco, Mexico’s Adrian Herrera (10-4, 8 KOs) in an eight-round flyweight matchup.

Here is what the fighters had to say:

AMARI JONES:

“I train every fight like I’m fighting for a world title. I don’t cut corners. Vincenzo has experience, but that’s all he has over me. I don’t feel like he’s better than me or more skilled than me. Friday night, I’m going to prove that.”

“There’s no better way to prove myself than against a former world champion. People already believe in me, but now it’s time to solidify myself in this division and show that I deserve a world title shot.”

“It’s a blessing to headline in the Bay Area. I’ve been putting in all the work, coming off back-to-back knockouts, and I feel like I earned this opportunity.”

“Friday night, I’m going to show everybody why Golden Boy is so high on me and why they’re backing me like this.”

VINCENZO GUALTIERI:

“It’s a great opportunity for me to move forward and become a world champion again.”

“I’ve fought a lot of champions and been in big fights before. Friday night, Amari is fighting someone who has already been there.”

ROBIN SAFAR:

“I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. That’s one of the biggest reasons I signed with Golden Boy because I knew they could push me into these opportunities.”

“I’ve been doing this for 15 years. I sacrificed being away from my family overseas for this sport. This is what God put me on Earth to do, and on Friday night I’m going to make a statement.”

“That belt is motivation. I came here to take that belt.”

“I always come to fight. I show my boxing skills, my speed, my power, and usually I get the knockout. Maybe we get another one Friday night.”

YAMIL PERALTA:

“Thank you everyone for being here. I took this fight because I’ve prepared for this moment for a long time. I’m ready to show people who I am on my path toward becoming a world champion.”

DARIUS FULGHUM:

“I had a rough stretch in 2025 and 2026, and I knew I needed to reevaluate things. I told Golden Boy I want to bring a belt back to them. The 168-pound division is wide open, and I need to give myself the best opportunity possible.”

“Being in California surrounded by great talent and great coaches has been huge for me. This year, I’m here to make statements.”

“That fight with Bektemir Melikuziev was a fight I still feel like I won, but I’m still learning and gaining experience. I know I’m capable of becoming a world champion, and we’re going to make that happen.”

TRISTAN KALKREUTH:

“I’m feeling good. Everything I’ve gone through in my career and everything my team and I have been working on — now it’s time to put it all together.”

“I believe in myself, and Golden Boy believes in me, too. It feels great to be back. I appreciate Golden Boy giving me the time to be with my wife and newborn daughter, but now it’s time to show people I’m one of the best cruiserweights in the world.”

“They grow up fast. At the end of the day, you still have to go in there and put on a show.”

“By going in there and being myself. I’ve gone through a lot these past few months with my daughter being born and balancing training, but I’m ready.”

#

Jones vs. Gualtieri is a 12-round IBF eliminator fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight is scheduled for Friday, May 22 at SAP Center in San Jose, Calif. and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing.

NEW YORK (May 20, 2026)—Global superstars Mike Tyson and undefeated Floyd ‘Money’ Mayweather (50-0), who signed to get in the ring in an exhibition this Spring, will have a short moment to wait while Tyson fully recovers from a broken hand he injured during training. Tyson, who was seen sporting a cast while he continues to work through a smooth recovery, is looking forward to the fight that will be rescheduled to a date in the Fall of 2026.  The date, venue and FIGHT SPORTS® broadcast plans will be announced shortly.

The Legend vs Legend exhibition, per agreements with CSI Sports™/FIGHT SPORTS®, was originally scheduled for May 30 and will only see a short postponement.

CSI Sports™/FIGHT SPORTS® exclusive deals with Tyson and Mayweather positions the company at the forefront of major global sports events, reinforcing its commitment to delivering marquee events and historic matchups to fans worldwide.

#???????#???????#

ABOUT CSI SPORTS™

Richard and Craig Miele founded CSI SPORTS™ in 1997 and have grown from creating, producing and distributing live championship boxing events in the U.S., into a leading global multimedia business controlling rights to boxing’s biggest global events including the highest grossing pay-per-view events of all time. In 2012, CSI SPORTS launched FIGHT SPORTS®, the fastest growing 24/7 sports network worldwide. CSI SPORTS™ controls global rights to HBO World Championship Boxing events and is also the exclusive owner of the iconic USA Tuesday Night Fights® series, acquired from Comcast/NBC Universal, which includes thousands of hours of content featuring boxing legends Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Oscar De La Hoya, and many more.

The FIGHT SPORTS® network reaches over 190 countries with U.S. distribution through the FIGHT SPORTS® branded block in over 80M households. The FIGHT SPORTS® linear channel currently reaches 60+ countries globally. Over the past two decades, CSI SPORTS’ rights to the biggest pay-per-view events in history including Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, Mayweather vs. De La Hoya, Tyson vs. Lewis, and many others that have generated billions of dollars in PPV revenue.

In 2026, CSI SPORTS will debut new technology set to revolutionize and forever enhance the sport and the viewing experience for audiences worldwide.

HAMILTON, Ontario, Canada (May 20, 2026) – Three Lions Promotions is building professional boxing back to the glory years in Metro Vancouver, showcasing local lightweight prospect Eric Basran (8-1, 3 KOs), who will headline “The Homecoming” card on May 30th at Royal King Palace in Metro Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“When you’ve got local talent like Eric Basran headlining in his own backyard, that’s how you grow boxing,” Three Lions Promotions managing director Daniel Otter commented, “We have great plans for the West Coast and May 30th is only chapter one.”

Vancouver was once known as a “fight city”, starting in the early 20th century, and peaking in the forties and fifties at venues like Exhibition Gardens and the Denman Auditorium. Times, though, have dramatically changed on the Vancouver boxing scene as interest dwindled during the past seven decades or so.

Vancouver hosted the 1972 fight between “The Greatest,” Muhammad Ali, and legendary Canadian heavyweight George Chuvalo on May 1, 1972 at Pacific Coliseum Ali won a 12-round unanimous decision. Two-time World Welterweight Champion Jimmy McLarnin, a Hall of Famer who is recognized as the greatest boxer ever developed in Vancouver, became a local hero back in the day. Another Vancouver boxing star, Tommy “The Little Giant of Hanover” Burns (47-5-9, 35 KOs) is the only Canadian-born world heavyweight champion, which he became in 1906 when he upset 2-1 favorite Marvin Hart in Los Angeles.

Amateur boxing, however, has been popular in Vancouver since the BC Golden Gloves launched in 1939, and it remains relatively strong there today.

The 27-year-old Basran, a popular Indo-Canadian, will take on Chilean Lightweight Champion Sebastian “Cerberus” Caucaman (5-1-1, 2 KOs) in the 10-round main event for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) International Silver Lightweight title.

“It’s amazing to bring boxing back to my city,” Basran said with pride. “We haven’t had bigtime boxing here in years and years. Amateur boxing has been getting better, but now it’s time to build pro boxing up here, and I see that happening in the next year or two. I’m a student of the game and I know about Vancouver’s boxing history and a lot of the old-timers from here.

“I’ve been kind of the lead guy here, but a lot of people in Vancouver don’t really know boxing because they haven’t been able to watch it live. Our upcoming show will kick things off. Our community is really supportive and interest will grow as we get bigger fighters here. It will grow among people for sure in Vancouver.”

The 27-year-old Basran, who fights out of Surrey, British Columbia in Canada, gained invaluable experience competing in last year’s World Boxing Council Grand Prix in Saudi Arabia, in which he suffered his first loss as a pro in the second round of tournament competition.

“I gained international experience in that tournament and that always helps,” Basran noted. “To be around so many boxing people from different countries was great. I knew how amateur boxing was on a world stage, but now I also know how boxing on the world stage works for pros.”

Basran will be fighting in his first scheduled 10-round bout; Caucaman defeated Felipe Pizarro (3-3-1) last October, by way of a one-sided 10-round unanimous decision (100-90 X 2, 98-92), for the Chilean lightweight crown.

In the 8-round, co-featured event, former CPBC Canadian (amateur) Champion, Surrey light heavyweight Buneet “Surrey’s Lion” Bisla (14-1, 7 KOs), will face an opponent to soon be finalized for an announcement.

Reigning Canadian Champion John-Michael “J-Money” Bianco (9-1, 4 KOs) faces undefeated Surrey’s Harkirat Nijjar (6-0, 5 KOs), a 2020 BC Provincial Champion, in an 8-round, non-title Super Middleweight Attraction.

Other pro boxers scheduled to be action on “The Homecoming” card include Vancouver flyweight Nyousha “Superfly” Nakhjiri (5-0, 2 KOs), 2025 Canadian Elite National Champion, vs. TBA in an 8-rounder, Hamilton bantamweight Meilyn Sanchez Martinez (3-0, 1 KO) vs. Wendy Catalina Villegas Franco (2-8, 2 KOs) in a female battle of Mexico natives, and Toronto welterweight Vadym Klym (2-0, 0 KOs) vs. Armando “Bris” Macias (5-0, 1 KO), of Mexico, in a 4-round fight.

Card subject to change.

Go online to www.threelionspromotions.com for ticket information and updates.

Full event details will be announced shortly, including final bout agreements.

?INFORMATION:

Website: www.threelionspromotions.com

Facebook: #ThreeLionsPromotions

Instagram: @3LionsPromotions @ericbasranboxing

LinkedIN: @DanielOtter

QUINCY, Mass. (May 20, 2026) – The star of last Saturday night’s “Rumble at the Rink II,” presented by Granite Chin Promotions, was clearly 2-time New England Golden Gloves Champion Jenn Perella (5-1, 1 KO).

Perella, the runner-up in the 2024 National Golden Gloves Tournament, lives in nearby Milton and packed the house with family and friends at Quincy Youth Arena in Quincy, Massachusetts. The thunderous ovation she received going into the ring was just the start from her supporting fanbase.

Perella out-boxed flyweight Kate Radomska, fighting out of Waterford, Ireland, consistently beating Radomska to the punch with an obvious quickness of hands advantage. Radomska, though, proved to be the toughest opponent yet for Perella, the 42-year-old mother of two.

Their fight was competitive and entertaining, despite the fact Perella won each round for a 6-round unanimous decision, by scores of 60-54 three times.

“I want to thank everybody here, especially my hockey players (including her son, their strength-and-conditioning coach who watched her fight live for the first time),” former college field hockey player Perella said after the fight. “It was awesome; I know it sounds crazy, but when I heard them during my walk to the ring, I felt like I’ve made it. Everybody came out to support me.

“I always feel that I can use my jab better. I always give 100-percent but nick pick after every fight, win or lose. My coach told me to jab more but I didn’t do it enough, because everything comes off my jab. My son and daughter had never seen me fight live (she had previously fought at 21+ venues). They were there tonight with my husband and father. My father was at every field hockey game I played, home or away, and he’s been at every one of my fights.”

The main event on this pro boxing card, technically speaking, was contested for the GCP Midget Wrestling Championship, refereed by special guest Butterbean, Walter defeated Cambodian Dragon for the title.

Rough N’ Ready graduate Bobby “Lights Out” Laing, fighting out of Braintree (MA), rushed across the ring at the sound of the opening bell and bombarded Peabody’s Russ Kimber, whose father and uncle were World Kickboxing Champions. Laing exploded punches all over Kimber’s body until he finally went down to his knees. He wasn’t able to beat the count and was knocked out at 1:16 of the first round.

“I came out and he caught me with a good right hand,” Laing explained. “I knew I was in a fight and I started punching him to the body over and over until he went down.”

Kingston middleweight Rich Allen improved his record to 3-0 (3 KOs), flooring pro-debuting Azemir Campos, Jr. with a body shot, to close the show at the 48-second mark of the opening round with a right to the head.

Hometown favorite heavyweight Peter “PJ” Campbell had the crowd cheering early and often as the union laborer, Local 695, fighter fired powerful shots against Felipe Soares Da Silva. The 6’ 7”, 292-pounder from Quincy used his 88-pound advantage to improve to 2-0 via a 4-round unanimous decision.

California junior middleweight Luis Valentin turned in a memorable pro debut, flooring Tymar Miles four times in the opening round, enroute to a second-round stoppage when Miles landed on the canvas for the final time

The night started with a 4-round middleweight bout in which The Bronx’ Israel Bailey pitched a shutout, winning each round on the three judges’ scorecards, for a unanimous decision victory against an overmatched Jay Gregory.

Granite Chin Promotions teamed up once again with the Quincy Fire Cancer Foundation. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to this non-profit organization whose mission is to provide unwavering support to firefighters and their families as they face the challenges of occupational cancer, ensuring they receive the care, resources, and assistance they need. Go to www.quincyfirecancerfoundation.com for additional information.

(L-R: Butterbean & “Irish” Micky Ward

Granite Chin hosted a “Fan Zone” in which Butterbean and local boxing legend, “Irish” Micky Ward, held meet-and-greets with fans. Also, as part of the experience, Bud Light, and WMEX set up areas featuring giveaways.

Official results are below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Peter Campbell (2-0, 0 KOs), Quincy, MA

WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37)

Felipe Soares Da Silva (1-5 (0 KOs), Malden, MA

Max Da Silva (4-10, 4 KOs), Malden, MA

WKO3 (3:00)

Kevin Nagle (11-1, 8 KOs)

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS

Bobby Laing (3-0, 3 KOs), Braintree, MA

WKO1 (1:16)

Russ Kimber (3-4 1 KO), Peabody, MA

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Rich Allen (3-0, 3 KOs), Kingston, MA

WTKO1 (0.48)

Azemir Campos Jr. (0-1), Boston, MA

Israel Bailey (2-0, 1 KO), The Bronx, NY

WDEC 4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36)

Jay Gregory (0-18-1), Auburn, NY

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Luis Valentin, Apple Valley, CA

(1-0, 1 KO)

Tymar Miles (0-7), Poughkeepsie, NY

FEMALE FLYWEIGHTS

Jenn Perella (5-1, 1 KO), Milton, MA

                                                      WDEC6 (60-54, 60-54, 60-54)

Kate Radomska (4-9, 0 KOs) , Waterford, Ireland

NEW YORK, NY – May 20, 2026 – Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) today announced final bouts for MVPW-04, taking place live on ESPN+ on Saturday, June 13 at Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. On the main card, MVP’s and Tampa’s WBA super flyweight world champion Jasmine “Animal” Artiga (15-0-1, 7 KOs) will make her third world title defense against WBA Interim champion and mandatory challenger Nataly Delgado (20-7-2, 5 KOs) over 10 rounds at 115lbs. On the preliminary card will be a clash of professional debuts with MVP’s undefeated Brazilian boxer and influencer Jully Poca, the most-followed active female boxer in the world, set to rematch Monica Medina in a professionally sanctioned super lightweight bout over 4 rounds at 140lbs. Joining them will be MVP’s WBA #1 super flyweight contender at 115lbs LeAnna Cruz (11-0, 1 KO) vs. Rubi Gutierrez (8-3-1, 1 KO) in an 8-round super flyweight bout at 115lbs, MVP’s #1 WBA contender Brittany Sims (9-3, 5 KOs), making her promotional debut vs. top contender Naomy Cardenas (10-1, 2 KOs) in an 8-round bantamweight bout at 118lbs, MVP’s 19-time US national champion Sa’Rai Brown El making her pro debut, and Jordan Orozco Hernandez (16-0, 16 KOs) vs. Fernando Diaz (16-7-1) in a 10-round bantamweight bout at 118lbs. Orlando’s Jayson Martinez will also join the card for his pro debut.

MVPW on ESPN showcases the sport’s most elite female fighters with championship bouts on every card and will always feature a main card composed entirely of female fighters, with an undercard including a mix of female and male bouts. The fourth installment of MVPW-04, the new year-round global platform for women’s boxing from MVP, will be headlined by MVP’s IBF super welterweight world champion Oshae Jones (9-0, 3 KOs) vs. mandatory challenger and #1 IBF contender Elia Carranza (11-2, 3 KOs) in a 10-round world title rematch at 154lbs following the pair’s tightly-contested first world title clash in 2025. In the co-main event, MVP’s WBC featherweight world champion Tiara Brown (20-0, 11 KOs) will make a 10-round 126lbs defense of her title against top-ranked contender Hannah Rapp (8-0-1, 5 KOs). Also on the main card, MVP’s and Argentina’s unified WBO, WBA, and IBF light flyweight champion Evelin Bermudez (22-1-1, 8 KOs) makes her promotional debut in a 10-round defense vs. Mexico’s IBF #1 contender Estefany Alegria (14-1-0, 4 KOs) at 108lbs. The preliminary card will also feature MVP’s two-time Brazilian Olympian Keno Marley (1-0) and  Boxlab Promotions’ undefeated Gabriela Tellez (7-0, 3 KOs) against TBA opponents. Tickets for MVPW-04 are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com. All media wishing to be credentialed for MVPW-04 must apply here.

WBA super flyweight world champion and Tampa, Florida’s first native-born world champion Jasmine “Animal” Artiga transitioned from playing gridiron in the Legends Football League to boxing at age 21, quickly carving out an impressive resume. After 13 unbeaten bouts, including a first round TKO win on MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects series in February 2024, she stormed into the spotlight on March?22,?2025, winning the vacant WBA female super flyweight title via majority decision over Mexico’s Regina Chávez. Artiga, Tampa’s first native world champion, was recently honored with a city proclamation from Mayor Jane Castor, honoring her athletic achievements and commitment to community mentorship. Standing 5?4? with a 64? reach, the 33-year-old Artiga continues to build momentum as one of women’s boxing’s hungriest new champions. She made her first successful world title defense with a TKO win on MVP Fight Night in August 2025, and defended her title again against challenger Stephanie Silva in December 2025.

“Nataly Delgado has perfected her craft and has earned being a mandatory challenger,“ said Jasmine Artiga. “The world will see two top females in their weight class contest their skills, strength, power, and will.”

Nataly Estefany Delgado Hernández is a 31-year-old pro boxer from Santiago de Veraguas, Panama, Republic of Panama, holding a record of 20 wins, 7 losses, and 2 draws across 29 fights. She has faced top competition throughout her career, including bouts against now-undisputed world champion Gabriela Fundora, former world champions Clara Lescurat and Maribel Ramírez, and Johana Zúñiga for the WBA Fedelatin Championship. Delgado won the Interim WBA super flyweight world title at 115lbs in July 2025 and has since made two successful defenses. She is now the mandatory challenger for Jasmine Artiga’s WBA world title.

“God’s plans are perfect and always designed for our own good. I’m grateful to MVP for this opportunity, honored, and very much motivated,” said Nataly Delgado. “We have earned this via very hard work, and I will deliver. I’m ready to fight in this Champion vs. Champion showdown. I hope Artiga is also ready. Let’s give boxing fans around the world a fight to remember.”

“MVPW-04 once again delivers four back to back world title fights and features seven promotional debuts from some of our most exciting new signees at MVP, from Oshae Jones, Tiara Brown and Evelin Bermudez to our stacked undercard with Brazil’s Jully Poca, the most followed active boxer in the world, #1 contenders LeAnna Cruz and Brittany Sims, and one of the best talents out of Team USA in the last few years with 19x national champion Sa’Rai Brown-El, ” said Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “Anchored by a back-to-back-to-back-to-back championship main card from MVP’s defending champions, MVPW only gets bigger and better on Saturday, June 13 in Orlando, live on ESPN+.”

Hailing from São Paulo, Brazil, Jully Poca is a powerhouse athlete who has dominated the crossover boxing scene with an undefeated record. Originally Brazil’s premier female fitness influencer, her life took a sharp turn in 2023 when she was invited to compete in the UK alongside megastar Whindersson Nunes. Despite only training for three months prior to her debut, she discovered a profound passion for the sport and has spent the last three years training exclusively as a full-time boxer. Under the tutelage of renowned coach Antonio Filho, the mentor behind former WBO champion Rose Volante, Poca has solidified her status by going undefeated to date and is now set to make her fully sanctioned professional debut with Most Valuable Promotions. Beyond her technical prowess, Jully possesses a magnetic public profile built on genuine courage. She first captured the Brazilian public’s heart when she intervened in a violent road-rage incident, physically subduing a man who was attacking two women until police arrived. This act of heroism, combined with her athletic transition, has earned her a massive digital footprint. With 3 million Instagram followers, Poca is set to become the most-followed female professional boxer in the world the moment she makes her pro debut, bridging the gap between social media stardom and elite combat sports.

“She asked for a rematch, I said let’s do it,” said Jully Poca. “Some stories need to have a definite ending, that’s what I’m coming to do. I’m excited to make my debut in Orlando and hope to see the local Brazilian community come out to support on Saturday, June 13!” 

Monica Medina comes to the ring from Vardaman, Mississippi. She will make her pro debut following her career so far bare knuckle boxing, dirty boxing and crossover boxing. Medina previously faced off with Poca in 2025, and now the pair will face off in a professionally sanctioned rematch.

“Jully this time when you go  down you’re staying down, said Medina. “You truly didn’t beat me last time, and this time I’ll show everyone who the better boxer is”

Gabriela “Sosa” Tellez is an undefeated rising prospect in the lightweight division, holding a 7-0 record with 3 knockouts. At just 19 years old, the orthodox fighter has already built a strong foundation with over 90 amateur bouts, showcasing maturity and ring IQ well beyond her years. Born in Vero Beach, Florida, and now fighting out of San Antonio, Texas, Tellez began boxing at the age of six and has quickly developed into one of the sport’s most promising young talents. Standing 5’3” and competing at 135 pounds, she is known for her sharp jab, her favorite punch, and disciplined style. Inspired by legends like Andre Ward and current pound-for-pound star Terence Crawford, Tellez has set ambitious goals to become the youngest women’s world champion, unify the division, and serve as an inspiration to the next generation of fighters. She is currently ranked WBA #3 contender in the world at 130lbs.

LeAnna Cruz is a 28-year-old Puerto Rican-American professional boxer competing at 115lbs who Cruz has built her career on consistency, discipline, and a deep respect for the craft of boxing. Of proud Puerto Rican heritage, Cruz brings grit and heart into every training camp and every fight. Her style blends sharp fundamentals with intelligent pressure, allowing her to control distance, dictate pace, and adapt to any opponent placed in front of her. Inside the ring, she is focused and methodical; outside the ring, she is respected for her humility, professionalism, and commitment to growth. Signing with Most Valuable Promotions represents a major milestone for Cruz, who holds ambitions for placing her on a global stage and firmly. She is the WBA #1 contender at super flyweight, 115lbs.

“Rubi Gutierrez is a great opponent to step back in the ring with,” said LeAnna Cruz. “She has a SD loss against a future world champion and is not afraid to lose or for a challenge. I have a ton of respect for her coming up two  weight classes to share the ring with me, but on Saturday, June 13th she’ll learn that was a huge mistake.”

Rubi “La Panterita” Gutierrez is a 20-year-old rising contender from Saltillo, Mexico. She is currently on a three-fight winning streak, most recently earning a unanimous decision victory in April 2026.

WBA #1 contender at 118lbs Brittany “Eagle Flex” Sims has engineered one of the most impressive turnarounds in women’s boxing, having transformed her career from a 1–3 start into a formidable 9–3 record, highlighted by her current eight-fight winning streak. A well-rounded athlete, Sims brings a diverse background in MMA and track and field, tools that have helped shape her explosiveness, conditioning, and ring IQ. She also dominated in the TCL league, where she put together an incredible 16-fight winning streak. During her rise, Sims captured the WBA Americas Continental title, the NABF title, and the WBA International title, achievements that positioned her as the WBA’s #1 contender and mandatory challenger for the world championship against Cherneka Johnson. Trained by Lemuel Rodriguez and managed by Dave Dubinsky of DKO and fighting out of Bethlehem, Sims now looks ahead to the next chapter of her career with Most Valuable Promotions.

“Cardenas is not someone to overlook. She is a great boxer, and I have a lot of respect for her and her team. That being said, my team and I have been working extremely hard every day. I’m prepared, focused, and ready for the moment,” said Brittany Sims. “May I be swift like an eagle, strong like a lion, and fight with the strength of ten men. It’s almost time to fly.”

Naomy Cardenas is a 26-year-old boxer from Chihuahua, Mexico. Cardenas made her international debut in June 2025 as part of MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 13, winning by split decision. Following the bout, she stepped up to contend for the WBO super flyweight world title, losing by decision to reigning champion Mizuki Hiruta. She most recently rebounded with a UD win in March 2026.

“I’m very happy for the opportunity MVP is once again giving me,” said Cardenas. “I know I have a strong and intelligent opponent in front of me, which will make for an even better fight because of the contrast in styles. I have had great preparation behind me and I’m coming in with the hunger for victory.”

19-time US national champion Sa’Rai Brown-El comes from a proud lineage of fighters and was born into boxing royalty, but her rise wasn’t guaranteed. Her mother first saw her spark, despite early resistance from her father and coach, who didn’t believe boxing was a sport for women. Everything changed during a family trip to her birthplace in Albany, NY when a visit to her uncle’s boxing gym flipped the script. Once Brown-El stepped into the ring, her natural talent spoke louder than tradition ever could, and her father never looked back. She began boxing at the age of 10. What followed was a journey defined by relentless discipline, a powerful work ethic, and a fierce hunger to master the craft of boxing. That fire drove her to the top of the amateur ranks, where she became the first female boxer from Georgia to win both the Junior Olympics and the National Silver Gloves. Within a year, she had become a national champion, marking the beginning of her dominance. By age 14, she had cemented her name in history as one of the most decorated young female boxers in the country, ranked #1 in her age and weight class by USA Boxing and holding the most wins across all female divisions at the time. In 2019, she earned a coveted spot on Team USA after winning the USA Boxing National Championships, becoming the first female boxer from Georgia to achieve those honors. A five-time international medalist and seven-time Georgia Female Boxer of the Year, Brown-El’s excellence has not gone unnoticed. USA Boxing named her the future of women’s boxing—a title that carries weight, and one she’s ready to live up to. With her amateur legacy cemented, the 19-year-old now joins MVP’s elite roster of women’s fighters ahead of her professional debut this year, entering into the professional ranks with one goal: to take over women’s boxing.

WBA and WBO #12 ranked contender Jordan Orozco Hernandez will also join the undercard. He boasts a fearsome 100% KO ratio on his 16-0 record, with 16 knockouts. The 21-year-old Nicaraguan bantamweight most recently earned a second round TKO win over Daniel Olea in March. Orozco will face Fernando Diaz. Diaz is a 26-year-old prospect from Riverside, California. 

Jayson Martinez will make his pro debut on MVW-04. Born in Cayey, Puerto Rico, raised in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, and currently residing in Orlando, Florida, Martinez completed a 30-fight amateur career earning a top six national ranking. The 22-year-old has built a reputation for his skill, discipline, and exciting style as he prepares for his professional debut. 

MVPW-04 is produced and marketed by MVP and promoted by MVP and Boxlab Promotions.

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions, on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions.

About MVP

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) was founded in August 2021 by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian with a fighter first ethos. Since inception, MVP has produced 30 live boxing events, currently promotes nearly 60 fighters, 16 world champions, and 26 top contenders.

MVP has led boxing’s evolution in the streaming era through partnerships with the world’s leading platforms. In November 2024, MVP’s Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2 was the first-ever live professional sports event streamed on Netflix. Paul vs. Tyson shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event of all time with 125 million live viewers worldwide. MVP went on to partner with Netflix twice in 2025 for MVP’s Taylor vs. Serrano 3 and Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day.

Today, MVP is the global home of women’s boxing. MVP’s Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano in 2022 was the first female fight to headline Madison Square Garden, while Taylor vs. Serrano 2 in 2024 saw 74 million viewers globally on Netflix and became the most-watched professional women’s sports event in US history with 47 million AMA in the US. Their 2025 trilogy on Netflix topped an all-women’s megacard that set the official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most world championship belts ever contested on a single fight card, male or female, with 17 world titles, earning nearly 6 million viewers globally. 

About ESPN

ESPN offers its full suite of networks and services directly to fans on the ESPN App, providing more choice, flexibility and access to all of ESPN, including more than 47,000 live events per year, on-demand replays, industry-leading studio shows and original programming, and more. The ESPN App gives fans a unique viewing experience that includes multiview and synchronized two-screen viewing options, swipe-able vertical video and a personalized SportsCenter For You, as well as integrated game stats, ESPN Fantasy sports, betting odds and information from DraftKings, sports merchandise, and more. These features are available to all fans who watch on the ESPN App on mobile and connected TV devices, whether they subscribe directly or through a pay TV package. Bundling options available for fans include a limited time offer for the ESPN DTC Unlimited plan with Disney+ and Hulu for $29.99/month for the first 12 months. For more visit stream.espn.com.

MIAMI, FL (May 20, 2026) – Undefeated heavyweight contender Gustavo “The Cuban Assasin” Trujillo (10-0, 9 KOs), currently ranked WBO #14, is entering the next phase of his boxing journey with purpose and determination as he prepares to face Sergio Ramirez Marin (22-8, 12 KOs) in a scheduled 10-round heavyweight bout on May 30, 2026, at the historic War Memorial Auditorium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The event will be promoted by American Dream Presents.

Already viewed as one of the sport’s most dangerous rising heavyweights, Trujillo, who is the reigning BKB Heavyweight Champion, has built an impressive reputation with his explosive punching power and relentless style inside the ring. Now, with another important test in front of him, the Cuban-born knockout artist believes this fight represents much more than another win on his record, it represents another step toward making history.

Having recently completed an intense training camp in Miami under the guidance of longtime trainer Herman Caicedo, Trujillo says this camp has pushed him to another level physically and mentally.

“This training camp with coach Herman Caicedo has been one of the best camps of my career because we’re working smarter, being really calculated on every drill,” said Trujillo. “Every day has had a purpose. We focused on sharpening every part of my game, my conditioning, my movement, my timing, my defense, and making sure my power stays dangerous from the first round to the last. Herman understands where I want to go in this sport and what I need to become to get there. We’re building something bigger than just winning fights…we’re building a complete heavyweight that can compete with anybody in the world. I feel stronger, faster, and more focused than ever, and I believe people are going to see that on fight night.”

While Trujillo has become known for his devastating finishing ability, he is approaching Ramirez Marin with complete respect and focus, understanding that experienced opponents can present dangerous challenges.

Discussing the matchup itself, Trujillo made it clear that he expects a determined opponent but plans to impose his will from the opening bell.

“Sergio Ramirez Marin is a veteran fighter with experience and toughness, and I know he’s coming to fight,” Trujillo stated. “Guys like him have seen a lot and they’ve been through battles, so I don’t overlook anybody. But when I step into that ring, I believe in my preparation, and I believe in my abilities. I’m hungry right now. Hungry fighters are dangerous fighters. I don’t just want to win, I want to end the fight early. Every fight is an opportunity to show people that I’m improving and that I belong with the best heavyweights in the world. On May 30, I’m coming to apply pressure, stay disciplined, and leave no doubt, why I’m the heavyweight everyone should be talking about.”

For Trujillo, victory on May 30 would move him another step closer to accomplishing a dream that extends far beyond personal success. The undefeated contender has often spoken about carrying the pride of Cuba with him every time he steps into the ring and his desire to make history. Trujillo believes his mission is bigger than himself.

“A win in this fight means progress toward something I’ve thought about for a long time,” Trujillo said. “I want to become the first Cuban heavyweight champion in boxing history. That’s not just a title to me, it’s a legacy. I want to open doors for future Cuban heavyweights and show that anything is possible through sacrifice and hard work. I know I still have a long road ahead of me, and I know nothing is given in this sport, but every fight gets me one step closer. That’s what drives me every morning. I don’t want to be remembered as just another fighter…I want to be remembered as someone who made history.”

Competing in South Florida also gives Trujillo the added motivation of performing in front of many of the people who have supported him throughout his journey. With family, friends, and supporters expected to fill the venue, Trujillo says fighting close to home adds extra emotion to the occasion.

“Fighting in South Florida always means something special to me because this community has shown me a lot of love,” Trujillo explained. “To have my family and friends there supporting me gives me energy that you can’t explain. They’ve been with me through sacrifices, through difficult moments, and through this journey from the beginning. When I walk into that arena and hear people cheering for me, I want to give them something memorable. I want them to leave saying they saw someone chasing greatness.”

Trujillo’s manager, Abe Swidan of Visionary Sports Group, believes all the hard work and dedication shown throughout camp will be on full display when the bell rings.

“Gustavo has put himself through an incredible training camp and he’s approaching this fight with the mindset of someone who knows bigger opportunities are on the horizon,” said Swidan. “We’ve watched him continue to evolve as a fighter with every camp and every fight. He’s committed himself completely to the process, and that’s why we’re confident in what people will see on May 30. The work he’s put in behind the scenes has been tremendous, and I believe fight fans are going to witness another major step forward in his development.”

As Trujillo continues climbing the heavyweight ranks, May 30 presents another opportunity for the undefeated contender to strengthen his growing reputation and move closer to his ultimate goal of making boxing history.

The iconic Luis Navarro Gymnasium in Miranda’s capital city became the center of developmental boxing this weekend as it hosted another intense edition of the WBA Future program. Featuring a total of 15 bouts, the World Boxing Association’s grassroots platform once again delivered a high-level showcase that allowed emerging talent and rising prospects in Venezuelan boxing to test their skills on a competitive stage.

The main event lived up to expectations and went the distance in a tactical battle. Gleybert Maia controlled the pace of the fight from start to finish, using his superior timing and ring IQ to secure a unanimous decision victory over the always-game Carlos Díaz. Maia’s consistency and command inside the ring were fully reflected on the judges’ scorecards, which read 98-90, 96-92, and 98-90 in his favor, further confirming his steady evolution as a prospect.

Meanwhile, the most explosive moments of the night came through stoppage victories. Jesús Geles showcased his finishing power by handing Diego Carbajal the first loss of his career via second-round technical knockout after applying relentless pressure from the opening bell. In similar fashion, Josber Pérez displayed his offensive arsenal by stopping Euclides Herrera, also by second-round TKO.

The quickest finish of the evening belonged to Geremy Vera, who wasted no time making a statement. Vera scored a devastating first-round knockout over Luis Guatache, electrifying the crowd at the Luis Navarro Gymnasium with a brutal display of punching power.

With the completion of these 15 bouts, the WBA Future program once again reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining consistent activity at the grassroots level of the sport, providing fighters with the technical and competitive foundation necessary to project their careers onto the international stage under the supervision of the world sanctioning body.

The boxing world is gearing up for a massive weekend of action from the historic pyramids of Giza. Ukrainian superstar Oleksandr Usyk will put his WBA heavyweight super championship on the line against an unusual challenger of gigantic proportions: Dutch combat sports legend Rico Verhoeven, who is attempting the boldest transition of his career into the professional boxing ranks.

Usyk enters the bout firmly established as one of the most intelligent and elusive heavyweight fighters of the modern era. After previously becoming undisputed at cruiserweight and repeating his dominance in boxing’s glamour division, the Ukrainian now faces a challenge rooted not in boxing pedigree, but in sheer size, physicality, and raw strength.

For Usyk, the key will be imposing his trademark footwork, southpaw stance, and relentless punch volume that has historically broken down naturally bigger opponents over the course of championship rounds. Maintaining distance and avoiding prolonged clinches along the ropes will be critical, as Verhoeven’s size and weight advantage could become a factor late in the fight.

Meanwhile, Rico Verhoeven approaches the contest as the ultimate opportunity to validate his transition into elite-level boxing. Widely regarded as one of the most dominant heavyweight kickboxers of all time, the Dutchman has committed his power, conditioning, and discipline exclusively to the sweet science in hopes of pulling off a monumental upset against the reigning WBA king.

Aware of the gap in boxing experience and technical sharpness, Verhoeven is expected to rely heavily on his imposing frame, reach, and suffocating pressure. His path to victory will likely depend on cutting off the ring, limiting Usyk’s movement, and turning the contest into a grueling physical battle where one clean shot could completely alter the outcome.

For this event, the WBA Championship Committee has officially implemented a special regulatory framework based on the organization’s internal rules and championship guidelines. The sanctioning body’s objective is to support the activity of its super champions in globally significant events while maintaining the integrity and structure of the heavyweight rankings.

As a result, the WBA established the following official conditions for the bout in Egypt:

If Oleksandr Usyk has his hand raised in victory, the result will be officially recognized as a successful defense of his WBA heavyweight super championship.

If Verhoeven wins, however, the Dutchman will not be recognized as WBA champion because he is currently unranked in the organization’s professional boxing ratings. Should Verhoeven pull off the upset, the title would not change hands inside the ring. Instead, the WBA Championship Committee would consider him eligible to enter the organization’s rankings, but not crown him as champion.